CHARACTER COUNTS! Exemplary Schools

To achieve Exemplary recognition, schools should illustrate improvements in students’ character, social-emotional, and academic skills, and a positive school culture. 

Selection Criteria

Commitment to Professional Development: To ensure quality instruction and sustainability of your initiative, schools should provide ongoing CHARACTER COUNTS! professional development for their faculty and staff.

Assessment: Exemplary schools collect data on their CHARACTER COUNTS! initiative and have evidence of the positive impact of CHARACTER COUNTS!

Meaningful Implementation and Planning: Schools that have the most successful CHARACTER COUNTS! initiatives create intentional practices to ensure that their work stands the test of time. Exceptional schools will have an implementation plan and set long-term goals.

Recognition

Selected schools will receive:

• a recognition banner to display at your school,
• access to an exclusive Exemplary School logo,
• listing on our website, and
• recognition on our social media platforms.

How to Apply

Schools must apply for exemplary status annually using our online application form. There is no cost to submit an application. 

School districts that have a comprehensive, district-wide initiative may also apply.

The CHARACTER COUNTS! team reviews applications annually in June and will notify applicants by August 15.

• Your application should detail your efforts from the most recent school year.
• Submit applications by June 30 to be considered for the current school year.
• Schools can submit one application each year.
• If your school was recognized as Exemplary the prior year, you can submit an application again (and are encouraged to do so). Please contact our office for the abbreviated renewal application.