Being a Florida School of Character is an honor that recognizes schools for their commitment to character education and the positive impact they have on their students, staff, and community. The Florida Council for Character Education awards this designation to schools that demonstrate a commitment to creating a positive school culture and promoting character development.

To become a Florida School of Character, a school must demonstrate evidence of character education initiatives that are integrated into the school culture and curriculum. This includes activities such as student-led service projects, character education assemblies, and regular opportunities for students to reflect on their own character. The school must also involve all stakeholders, including teachers, administrators, parents, and community partners, in its character education efforts.

Character is not just a word at CDS, but rather a guiding principle intertwined throughout the curriculum, communications, marketing, service, discovery, and everything that makes CDS who we are. In fact, it's our tagline, "Education with Character. 

Incorporating character into everything we do at CDS has many benefits for students and the school community. For students, it provides them with a positive and supportive learning environment that fosters their social and emotional development. It also helps them to develop important values and principles, such as responsibility, honesty, and respect, that will serve them well throughout their lives.

For CDS, the designation as a Florida School of Character helps to build a positive reputation and create a sense of pride among staff, students, and the community. It also provides opportunities for the school to connect with other schools that share its commitment to character education and to participate in professional development opportunities.

CDS is so proud to be a Florida School of Character. This is a significant achievement that recognizes our commitment to character education and its positive impact on their students, staff, and community. This designation provides a range of benefits for schools and the people they serve, helping to create a positive school culture and promoting character development in students. 

Thank you to Character.org for the distinction and to Shelly Hollingsworth, CDS Community Engagement Coordinator & Upper School Learning Specialist for her tireless work and advocacy for this designation.