Christel House Academy South is a “2017 State School of Character,” the only school in Indiana to receive this distinction. Character.org, a national nonprofit that advances quality character development in schools, recognized Christel House Academy as a school that has demonstrated its use of character development to positively impact academics and student behavior. “Our values of integrity, independence, respect and responsibility are what put us on the path to being recognized as a School of Character,” says Alicia Hervey, Dean of Student Development.
She cites three unique programs that set the school apart— teacher home visits, overnight student field trips and morning meetings. “Teachers visiting students and parents in their home setting is a great way for our students to connect with their teachers,” says Hervey. Christel House students start doing overnight trips as early as fourth grade. The 10th grade’s recent trip to Heifer International, a ”third-world” simulation experience offers students experiences U.S. kids don’t normally have. Morning meetings are unique in that they encourage students to share their feelings and challenges. All the programs are about building character. “We really take this idea of building relationships seriously,” Hervey concluded.