EC Selected as a 2014 New Jersey District of Character

Eastern Christian has been selected as a 2014 New Jersey District of Character by the New Jersey Alliance for Social, Emotional, and Character Development (NJASECD). The state recognized eight schools and two districts, choosing schools after a comprehensive application and evaluation process.

Across the country, 44 schools and four school districts were recognized for excellence in character education. Due to the state recognition, Eastern Christian School’s application has now been forwarded to the Character Education Partnership (CEP) in Washington, D.C. for consideration in the National Schools of Character Program. If Eastern Christian is determined to meet national standards, it will receive a five-year National School of Character award and join a network of schools to serve as a model for other educators, according to CEP.

In a letter dated January 22, 2014, William Trusheim Dachnowicz, president of NJASECD, wrote, “Congratulations! Because of the high quality of work represented in your State/National Schools of Character application, the New Jersey Alliance for Social, Emotional and Character Development has selected Eastern Christian School as a 2014 New Jersey District of Character. Your district will maintain this status for a period of three years.”

Spearheaded by ECMS Dean of Students Mary Faber, ECHS Art Teacher Jesse Wright, and ECES Kindergarten Teacher Donna Holly, the school’s portfolio application demonstrated excellence in eleven principles of effective character education. The team began gathering evidence more than two years ago in order to effectively prove a culture that offers an engaging, nurturing and transforming education.