Equally important as the academic growth of our students is a strong emphasis on character formation. Interwoven within our school day are the concepts and strategies for this character development. Each day time is set aside to develop these “habits of the heart.”
In small grade level and homeroom groupings, students begin to develop an awareness of self and others, which leads to mutual respect and acceptance. Discussions, personal reflection, role-playing, “what if” situations and prayer are the springboards for the development of these characteristics that are hallmarks of children of the Sacred Heart.
One of our primary emphases is to instill in students a sense of responsibility: responsibility for both their learning and their personal choices. Included in this formation is the development of skills related to self-discipline and courtesy.
A second emphasis is to educate to a spirit of generosity: generosity of time, talent and resources. The gift of one’s self will lead to a deeper understanding of God’s love for each of us. We make students aware of both the immediate needs around them and future needs.
Beginning with the youngest, students are given opportunities to explore their own gifts, talents and limitations. Students discover and begin to gain a broader understanding of their peers. This developing consciousness leads them to see value in what each has to offer the other and leads them to see beyond themselves.
All students are challenged to participate in a variety of on and off campus experiences that allow them to encounter the issues that cause suffering in our world. This often puts names and faces to those in need and raises awareness of the plight of others. This knowledge affirms our life mission: to bring Christ to the world and the world to Christ.
The development of these character traits enables students to assume roles of leadership at every age. As confident and self aware individuals, students can then encourage each other to make right choices and be their best selves. The development of leadership skills allows students to see that they can be agents of change.
This emphasis on character formation along with a rigorous academic curriculum develops confident, informed, and capable students who are builders of God’s kingdom.
