Seaholm, West Maple recognized by Character.org

Character.org, a national advocate and leader for character, recently announced that Seaholm High School and West Maple Elementary were designated as state-level Schools of Character for 2025.

Character.org annually certifies schools and districts at the state level that have devised and executed an intentional, proactive, and comprehensive strategy to integrate character education into all facets of school life. Seaholm and West Maple are included among the nearly 100 schools and districts are now being considered for the organization's National School of Character distinction, which represents the highest accolade a school or district can attain from Character.org.

"We are committed to nurturing the whole child and empowering our students to realize their full potential," Birmingham Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Embekka Roberson said. "Our dedicated staff understands the importance of providing educational excellence that allows each student to cultivate their individual brilliance and make a positive impact on the world."

Since its inception, Character.org’s Schools of Character program has positively impacted over three million students, staff, parents and other community members.

“We are excited to announce today the 2025 State Schools and Districts of Character,” said Dr. Arthur Schwartz, Character.org’s President. “Each of these schools and districts have put into place an initiative that equips and empowers their staff to reinforce and model a range of positive core values that will shape and form the hearts, minds, and choices of their students.” 

The criteria for selection are derived from Character.org's 11 Principles Framework for Schools: A Guide to Cultivating a Culture of Character. This Framework comprises essential indicators for establishing a nurturing school environment in which all individuals feel a sense of belonging, facilitating opportunities for students to practice and reflect upon their character strengths, and involving families and communities as collaborative partners in the school's character development initiative.