Saint Joseph Catholic School Wins National Character Award

COLUMBIA, SC -Saint Joseph Catholic School has been selected as one of only 44 schools in the country, and the only school in South Carolina, to win recognition as a “National School of Character” by the Character Education Partnership (CEP).

The vision of the CEP is to ensure that young people everywhere are educated, inspired and empowered to be ethical and engaged citizens. The CEP’s National School of Character program recognizes schools and districts that have demonstrated that character development has had a positive impact on academics, student behavior and school climate.

“We believe that a positive school culture – what many people call ‘school climate’ – is the cornerstone of a great school. Saint Joseph has as its core the strong morals and character education indicative of parochial schools across the country,” says Rose Tindall, principal of Saint Joseph Catholic School. “Guided by solid Christian principles such as ‘The Golden Rule’, our students learn how to be truly excellent-inspired by the example of our patron saint, Saint Joseph.”

“In schools of character, adults embrace their critical role as models. Teachers work together as professionals—and with parents and community members as partners—to positively shape the social, emotional, and character development of the young people entrusted to them each day. Students in these schools feel safe, respected, and connected to those around them, allowing them to thrive academically and socially and be motivated to give back to their communities,” as stated by the CEP leadership.

Saint Joseph Catholic School went through an intensive application and screening process that included an in-depth application, a site visit, conference calls and analysis of the impact of their character-related efforts on academics, student behavior, and school culture as part of the consideration to be named a National School of Character.

About Saint Joseph Catholic School:

Saint Joseph Catholic School, a coeducational parish school for grades K4 through 6, exists for the purpose of providing Catholic education of the highest quality to the children of parishioners and other residents of the Columbia area. Central to the school program is a dedication to spiritual development and academic excellence based on Gospel values. Through opportunities to worship, to learn, and to grow in character, Saint Joseph students are prepared to be lifelong learners who practice and live their values in the Catholic, Christian tradition. For more information, please visit www.stjosdevine.com.