Contemporary schools require far more than just 'the three R's'. Beyond the books and tests, educational facilities are expected to produce members of society with integrity, as well. Character education is an abstract idea that many educators, both teachers and administrators, have a difficult time implementing, and too often it gets left out of the curriculum. How do school personnel, then, instill values of good character in students, and as an administrator, how do you spread these values to the entire school? DeRoche and Williams provide school leaders with an effective road map, touring schools that have achieved success. The authors divide the reader's journey through reform efforts into several 'tour stops, ' beginning with a review of the character education framework, passing through subjects such as school climate, core values, training personnel, forming relationships, and concluding with guidelines for evaluation. Each 'stop' contains a list of helpful articles or books, as well as valuable Internet resources. The conclusion of the journey is ultimately the responsibility of school leaders, but this book will give you a head start.

"A great resource for teaching that character matters in furthering the ideals on which this country has been built!"
Carol Russo, Principal, William Lloyd Garrison School
Bronx, NY

"The ?soil? of our schools has lost a nurturing ingredient that is essential to give life to the ideas and the efforts of educators. That missing nurturing ingredient is the school?s moral mission . . . DeRoche and Williams have written a sound and practical book not only for educators but for anyone interested in learning exactly how schools can navigate these often shoal-filled waters."
Kevin Ryan
From the Foreword, Educating Hearts and Minds, 2^nd Edition

This second edition merges new ideas in character education research with best practices in schools and districts. The authors provide the most up-to-date and comprehensive framework for K-12 administrators, educators, and concerned citizens. It offers easy access to practical and proven methods supported by in-depth rationale.

Highlighted are keys for success in building an effective character education program:

• Six sets of standards for character education
• Six tips for leaders
• Five tips to ensure reaching consensus
• Five classroom expectations
• Strategies for school culture and classroom climate
• Steps for developing a values curriculum
• Co-curricular activities
• Teaching principles
• Staff development and personnel training
• Assessment

The authors propose standards, promising practices, and assessment instruments that can be personalized to fit the needs and interests of any school, student population, school district, or community. A must-have resource for the concerned and committed educator and parent.