Lancaster Elementary School in Orlando has been named a 2010 Florida School of Character by The Golden Rule Foundation. The award recognizes schools that excel in academic achievement, character development and the value of community service. Lancaster will now compete for the 2010 National Schools of Character Award.
During the school day students regularly meet in class to discuss positive character traits, inspirational stories and conflict resolution. A collaborative group of staff and community members also meet regularly to monitor progress and research ways to enhance, expand and enrich their curriculum and school programs.
Lancaster is also home to the 2010 Support Person of the Year Christine Guhl. Guhl, with the leadership of principal Belinda Reyes and staff, support numerous character education programs. Their focused values include citizenship, compassion, courage, cooperation, kindness, perseverance, respect, responsibility and self control. The school works very hard to fuse character values with academics. For example, when displaying positive behavior students receive character cash to use in the school store. They also receive “random acts of kindness” awards.
The National Schools of Character awards will be announced in March 2010
