The School District of Washington is proud to congratulate Campbellton Elementary, Clearview Elementary, and the Early Learning Center on outstanding recognition from Character.org.

All three schools have been named 2026 Missouri State Schools of Character, an honor that reflects their strong commitment to building positive school cultures and developing students of character. In addition, Campbellton Elementary has earned the prestigious designation of National School of Character.

Each school completed an extensive application and interview process to earn this recognition. As part of the evaluation, they also received detailed feedback reports to guide continued growth through the 11 Principles of Character framework.

Character.org, a national nonprofit organization and leader in character development, announced this year’s recognition of 103 schools and districts from around the world as 2026 State and National Schools of Character. Honorees include 94 schools across the United States and a record-breaking nine international schools, all demonstrating a deep commitment to developing strong culture, ethical leadership, and character growth in students.

The School of Character designation celebrates schools that are effectively implementing the 11 Principles of Character and building environments where students learn to lead with integrity, responsibility, and respect. For many schools, this recognition represents years of intentional effort to align practices, relationships, and learning experiences with shared core values.

This year’s recognized schools reflect a growing movement of educators who believe academic success and character development go hand in hand. Through intentional practices such as service learning, student leadership opportunities, relationship-centered classrooms, and reflection on shared values, these schools are helping students develop the skills and character strengths needed to thrive in school and in life.

“Schools of Character show us what is possible when a school community commits to developing the whole child,” said Nicole Diehl, Executive Director of Schools of Character. “The schools recognized this year represent diverse communities, grade levels, and educational approaches. All are intentionally building cultures where students learn not only academic skills, but also empathy, curiosity, civic responsibility, and perseverance. Recognition as a State or National School of Character reflects years of thoughtful work by educators, students, and families to ensure that character is lived and practiced every day.”

For more information about the National Schools of Character program, please click here for the website.