2 Cherry Hill Schools Named Schools Of Character For 2021

CHERRY HILL, NJ — Two Cherry Hill schools were among 47 schools and one district that were certified as National Schools of Character this week.

Cherry Hill High School East and Joyce Kilmer Elementary School have been named National Schools of Character, the school district announced.

All 19 of the township’s public schools have now been recognized as National Schools of Character at some point, according to the district.

“We are pleased to announce and celebrate the schools and school district that have earned this national recognition,” Character.org President Arthur Schwartz said. “The educators at these schools model and reinforce the core values of respect and dignity. They are teaching their students to be honest and trustworthy, to contribute their time and talents to the common good, and when necessary, to show the courage to stand up for what is right.”

Since its inception, the National Schools of Character program has impacted over 3 million students, staff, parents, and community members. The schools and districts that apply must meet the rigorous standards articulated in Character.org’s 11 Principles Framework for Schools. Each school is assessed by a team of trained evaluators.

"We congratulate these schools for completing the application and review process in a year that has been anything but typical," said Lori Soifer, who directs the Schools of Character program. “Each of these schools has put in place a comprehensive approach to help students understand, care about, and consistently practice the character strengths that will help them flourish in school, in relationships, in the workplace, and as citizens."

All schools that were named National Schools of Character will be honored at Character.org’s next annual Forum, which will take place virtually from Oct. 20-22.