This leadership framework, based on practices employed by some the nation's most successful principals, can be used to diagnose and address school needs. The framework is excerpted from "Breakthrough Principals" © 2016 by Jean Desravines, Jaime Aquino, Benjamin Fenton, and New Leaders, published by Jossey-Bass, a Wiley brand. The…

Postulates a connection between character education and social responsibility. Identifies the two essential skills necessary for character development as empathy and self-discipline. Discusses the role these play in developing a social conscience. (MJP)

Endorses the movement, popular among parents and teachers, for implementing ethical instruction in the K-12 curriculum. Discusses the needs and benefits of such instruction. Examines the question of "whose values" are to be taught, and arrives at a consensus of core values, including honesty, compassion, self-discipline, and respect.…

Provides a selected list of workbooks and other curriculum materials to enhance character education instruction. Includes addresses and phone numbers for 13 research organizations such as the Ethics Resource Center and the Character Education Institute. (MJP)

Describes the Child Development Project in California, which holds that academic and character education are equally important goals for schools. The project has been established to produce long-lasting effects on children's "prosocial" development. (MD)

Achieving the kind of balance that encourages all children to learn, work, and contribute to their fullest potential has been a continuing challenge as the world grows more complex and our communities more fragmented. Aspects of education that have been referred to as character education, service learning, citizenship education, and emotional…

Asserts that character education in the schools should be framed by the civic principles of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Paraphrases these principles as "rights, responsibilities, and respect." Addresses parental misgivings about possible religious content and conflict. (MJP)

In the 21st century, students' character, social-emotional skills, and academic competencies will define school excellence. This article describes characteristics of visionary leadership for such schools based on settings already characterized by strengths in "EQ + IQ = Best Leadership Practices for Caring and Successful Schools." Core beliefs…

Based on the experiences of a participant observer (weekly playground volunteer) over the course of one school year, this paper recounts the experiences of first through third graders during recess and discusses the importance of outdoor play for providing children an opportunity to speak and act unfettered by adult expectations, thereby promoting…