Schools of Character Program
WCEP encourages Wisconsin Schools to engage in the Schools of Character Award Program of Character.org. This is a prestigious program that certifies schools and school districts in the United States and internationally. Character.org states that this program seeks to recognize schools that have embedded a set of shared “core values” and have positively impacted their schools by creating a culture of character.
There are four designations for Schools of Character:
- National School of Character
- State School of Character
- Honorable Mention
- Emerging School of Character
We encourage you to click the link below to learn about how your school or district can apply for this prestigious and affirming recognition.
Accepting applications July 1, 2026 – November 20, 2026
See if your school could qualify for SOC through the Eleven Principles criteria outlined by Character.org
New Ways to Interact With the Schools of Character Process
In an effort to provide more resources and benchmarks, ways for more schools to participate, and better capacity to sustain the program long-term, there are four ways to interact in the Schools of Character process. Whether your school is learning what it means to be a School of Character or an experienced school re-certifying after the five year designation is complete, we want to help you on your journey.
Free Access
- Staff and stake-holder reflection
- Self-directed exploration of the 11 Principles Implementation
Mock Audit
- Staff and stake-holder reflection
- Self-directed exploration of the 11 Principles Implementation
- Professional Feedback
State Review
- Staff and stake-holder reflection
- Self-directed exploration of the 11 Principles Implementation
- Professional Feedback
- Possible designation as School of Character
National Evaluation
- Schools of Character will have the option to be considered for National Schools of Character review
- State visit
- Detailed professional feedback report
All public and private K-12 schools and school districts are eligible to participate in the State Schools of Character Program and can choose whichever tier is most appropriate for their schools’ needs. For schools that are ready for State Review but are challenged by the $250 fee, WCEP will reimburse the $250 fee for WI applicants once Character.org verifies receipt of the application, and the school submits a request for reimbursement to WCEP.
