Moral Focus at the Forefront

Central to Chandler Woods is our “Moral Focus.” Each month a different character quality is emphasized. The character qualities chosen are based on the Greek Cardinal Virtues of Justice, Temperance, Prudence, and Fortitude. These four virtues are taught throughout the year and expressed as character qualities the children can more readily understand. Examples include: compassion, integrity (justice); self-control (temperance); respect, wisdom (prudence); courage, and perseverance (fortitude). Teachers discuss these qualities with the students, model them, and encourage students to demonstrate them as well. The moral focus is integrated with literature and other subject matter in an effort to make it as relevant to daily living as possible. Additionally, the moral focus themes are blended into the State of Michigan’s Core Democratic Values in an effort to help students develop into caring and responsible citizens.

Walk through the halls of Chandler Woods Charter Academy for a moment and see the difference. Of course the walls are adorned with student work, and smiling children fill the rooms, but look deeper and see the real difference. Chandler Woods is a place that understands what it means to cherish the child.

Look in the office as the secretary gingerly attends to the scraped knee from recess. Look outside the door of a classroom as a paraprofessional listens to a child read with a newfound confidence.

Feel the heart of the child lighten as a teacher lovingly puts aside her agenda to meet the needs of right now. Feel the touch of her gentle squeeze on the child’s shoulder as if to say “You can do it, I believe in you.”

Listen to the encouraging words of little ones as they apply the character qualities embedded in their daily lessons. Listen to the excitement in each classroom because the child is confident enough to take a risk in learning.

Listen to the sound of success; a child unlocking their own secret to succeed. That’s the goal of everyone who commits to be a part of the Chandler Woods team.