Character Choices

Building strong scholars means building strong character.

At Bradford Academy, education is about more than academic achievement. We want our scholars to develop the character, confidence, and habits they need to make good choices, build positive relationships, contribute to their community, and succeed throughout their lives.

Character education is intentionally woven into the Bradford experience. Through Character Choices, scholars explore important character traits and learn what those values look like in the classroom, at home, and in their community. Teachers reinforce these traits through classroom conversations, reading, writing, activities, and everyday opportunities to put good character into practice.

Throughout the year, scholars are encouraged to reflect on their choices, recognize character in others, and understand that qualities such as responsibility, respect, perseverance, and integrity matter both in and beyond the classroom.

Families are important partners in this work. By reinforcing shared expectations between school and home, we can help scholars develop the strong character and sense of responsibility they will carry with them long after they leave Bradford.

At Bradford Academy, we are committed to helping scholars grow not only in what they know, but also in who they become.

What makes the Character Choices program so unique?

  • Covers nine different traits throughout the school year
  • Helps develop social and academic behaviors
  • Includes academic lessons that correspond with the traits
  • Monthly assemblies and recognition
  • Includes etiquette lessons to prepare kids for social settings now and in the future
  • Includes community service activities each month
  • Promotes parent and community involvement
  • Is adaptable for students of all ages
  • Lessons are aligned to Common Core Standards
  • Character Choices Expression writing contest allows students to apply what they’ve learned  for a chance to win a $1,000 scholarship
  • Includes trainings on becoming tech-smart kids on social media
  • Extension activities are included for families to get involved in their child’s learning
  • And MUCH MORE!

What are the monthly traits?

Young students line up at the starting line at the track on campus.

SEPTEMBER – Respect

young student places dried leaves in a paper bag to recycle them.

OCTOBER – Responsibility

young students observe their science project together in the classroom.

NOVEMBER – Cooperation

one young student helps another young student tie their shoe in the classroom

DECEMBER – Compassion

young student shakes hands with a staff member while she receives her school lunch.

JANUARY – Good Judgment

young student pushes another young student in a toy car through the snow.

FEBRUARY – Integrity

person in a wheelchair throws their arms up in trumph behind a setting sun.

MARCH – Perseverance

Children recycling in front of a field of grass

APRIL – Citizenship

young student smiles on their bike as their mother pushes them forward.

MAY – Courage