Childersburg High School Homes

Character.org recognized Childersburg High School’s “Homes” initiative as a 2019 Promising Practice. This recognition is given to schools who have implemented unique, specific, and effective character development strategies.

In the summer of 2017, it was evident to principal Dr. Quentin Lee that Childersburg High School “needed a culture shift.” That summer a group of dedicated teachers met to brainstorm and create a new vision for the school. They knew that “in order to have a lasting impact, this plan had to address every level of school function, beyond instruction to the very environment of the school and its relationship with the community.” The group’s greatest inspiration, Dr. Lee shares, was collected from the Ron Clark Academy and participation in the Hope Leadership Academy.

Through this collaborative work, the concept for the “Homes” initiative was born, focused on Character.org’s 4th Principle of Effective Character: Creating a Caring Community.

The “Homes” initiative involves 100% of the students in the school’s diverse population, plus graduates and staff members. Dr. Lee describes the details on the Promising Practice application form, “All Childersburg High School students, faculty and staff are divided into four houses. Each student, teacher, and staff member selects a house by random draw. Each person remains in their house throughout their time at Childersburg High School and will continue even as an alumnus. Each house has approximately 8-12 faculty and staff members, one acting as House Director. They assist students in planning activities annually that focus on the following categories: Service, Social, Spirit/Pride, and Character Education. Additionally, each house meets monthly for about 45 minutes during the school day with the exception of December and May. Subcommittees and houses may choose to meet on their own as needed.”

Both teachers and students in each of the four homes team up to earn points throughout the year. Students can gain points for academic achievement and being recognized for positive behavior. In the same vein, student discipline can result in point deductions. Teachers work to earn points through specific challenges and participation in professional development. The house point totals are proudly displayed in the main hallway of the school and on the school's marquee.

Dr. Lee shares several positive outcomes resulting from the character culture now being more prominently featured in the school. First, he shares that “school discipline was reduced from over 600 referrals in 2017 to only 303 in 2018.” He has noted an increased in school pride amongst students, staff, and even community members who now have a more positive perception of the school. “The positive change is also noted from the current attendance rate of 95.6% of students attending school daily.” He sees the house system as a way to further the mission of the school by providing greater care to all our students while strengthening their sense of community” in addition to helping students opportunities to develop leadership skills.

The Hope Institute is thrilled to remain partnered with Childersburg High School as their character journey continues.

Click here to read more about Childersburg High School’s “Homes” initiative.