January 25, 2021

Character.org, a national advocate and leader for character, has designated Brookwood Middle School as a 2021 State School of Character. Brookwood Middle is one of only 78 schools and one district worldwide to receive this distinction this year. Only three schools in Alabama were chosen as 2021 State Schools of Character.

Each year, Character.org certifies schools and districts that demonstrate a dedicated focus on character development, which has a positive effect on academic achievement, student behavior, and school climate. Since its inception, Character.org’s Schools of Character program has impacted nearly three million students, staff, parents, and other community members.

Brookwood Middle School’s character education program, PRIDE, is interwoven into daily instruction and other activities for students, faculty, staff, and families. PRIDE stands for participation, responsibility, integrity, dedication, and effort.

“PRIDE sets the standard and expectation for staff and students,” Character.org said in its State School of Character evaluation of Brookwood Middle School.

“In the midst of COVID interruption, PRIDE instruction has continued for remote learners as well as campus students.”

"We congratulate these schools on achieving State School of Character designation in a year filled with so many challenges,” Character.org President Dr. Arthur Schwartz said.

“The educators and parents at these schools work together to ensure that every child understands, cares about, and consistently practice the core values that form the heart of each family and school. We are honored to recognize their efforts and share their inspiring work with schools and school districts throughout the United States and internationally.”

Brookwood Middle joins two other TCSS schools, Huntington Place Elementary and Walker Elementary, that hold the State School of Character distinction. HPES and Walker earned this designation in 2020, and both went on to be named National Schools of Character later that year. Brookwood Middle School now moves forward to be considered for the distinction of National School of Character.

Founded in 1993, Character.org is a national nonprofit based in Washington, D.C. Character.org works with schools, families, workplaces, and communities to educate, inspire, and empower people of all ages to be ethical and compassionate citizens. Character.org’s 11 Principles for Schools is a comprehensive framework that helps schools and school districts improve academic achievement, student behavior, and overall positive school climate. Visit www.character.org to learn more about the Schools of Character program.