Character Development

At Oakland, we believe in educating the whole child with teaching that extends beyond the classroom and covers life lessons necessary for future success after Oakland and into adulthood.

Character Counts

Oakland maintains high behavioral expectations for all students, and the school regularly receives positive comments from visitors and community members about how well behaved our students are. That is because as a community—students, teachers, parents, and staff—we place a strong emphasis on our six Pillars of Character that we feel are vital for the students in our program. These pillars are woven throughout the school day as part of Oakland’s Character Counts initiative.

Trustworthiness

Integrity, honesty, reliability, loyalty

  • Be honest in communications and actions
  • Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal
  • Be reliable; do what you say you’ll do
  • Have the courage to do the right thing
  • Build a good reputation
  • Be loyal; stand by your family, friends, and country

Respect

Tolerance, acceptance, nonviolence, courtesy

  • Treat others with respect
  • Be tolerant of differences
  • Use good manners, not bad language
  • Be considerate of the feelings of others
  • Don’t threaten, hit, or hurt anyone
  • Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements

RESPONSIBILITY

Duty, accountability, excellence, self-control

  • Do what you are supposed to do
  • Persevere; keep on trying!
  • Always do your best
  • Be self-disciplined
  • Think before you act
  • Be accountable for your choices

Fairness

Fairness, justice, and openness

  • Play by the rules
  • Take turns and share
  • Be open-minded
  • Listen to others
  • Don’t take advantage of others
  • Don’t blame others carelessly

CARING

Concern for others, charity, giving

  • Be kind
  • Be compassionate
  • Show you care
  • Express gratitude
  • Forgive others
  • Help people in need

Citizenship

Do your share, respect authority and the law

  • Make your school and community better
  • Cooperate
  • Get involved in community affairs
  • Stay informed; vote
  • Be a good neighbor
  • Protect the environment