We fully support and participate in the PUSD and City of Pleasanton Community of Character and Character Education program. Character education is the process of helping students develop and practice the core ethical values that our diverse society shares and holds important. These values include, but not limited to, respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, caring, honesty, justice and fairness, citizenship and civic involvement. A comprehensive character education program addresses critical concerns such as discipline problems, proper respect for students and teachers, substance abuse, teen pregnancy and poor academic performance. At its best, character education permeates every aspect of the school day. Building an environment that reinforces the traits that a community values, with parents as active players in the partnership, can help improve the qualities of honesty, respect and responsibility among our youth.

At Foothill, the six character traits are always in view above the Main Office- Respect, Integrity, Responsibility, Compassion, Self-Discipline and Honesty. We encourage and support our students and staff to incorporate these traits into everything they do. To that extent, we distribute “The Face of Character Awards” on a regular basis to students or staff that are observed doing something that demonstrates one of the traits. Nominations can be from any community member, and are considered as long as the situation is a viable one.

Additionally, we hold a “Laws of Life” Writing Contest each year, highlighting student writings that explain how one or more of the character traits has influenced students in his or her life. A distinguished luncheon is held for the five winners in each grade level, their parents and English teachers, when the winning essay in each grade level is read by the student author. For more info, visit: www.lawsoflife.org

Discipline referrals include information regarding which character trait or traits were absent in the situation for which the student is being referred. Staff members discuss these character traits with students in these situations.

A variety of other programs relating to the Community of Character are always being developed. If you would like to participate in making a difference as a parent or student on the Foothill campus, you are encouraged to attend Community of Character Meetings held monthly to find out how you can help.