.CharacterStrong Certified Schools Program.
The CharacterStrong Certified Schools Program is our commitment to celebrating schools that build intentional, evidence-based systems that nurture belonging, well-being, and engagement for all.
Through our Certified program—Spotlight, Impact, and Flagship—schools are recognized for the meaningful work already underway, provided with clear guidance from research-aligned tools, and connected to a growing community dedicated to systemic, whole-school support.
This isn’t just a badge—it’s a bold step toward creating school-wide clarity, elevating educator confidence to meet the demands, and delivering consistent, scalable practices that reflect CharacterStrong’s mission.
Why CS Certified Schools
- You're doing meaningful work — investing in students, supporting staff, and building a stronger school culture every day.
- But we've noticed something: even with all that effort, it can sometimes feel like the work is happening in isolation, without the recognition or shared momentum it deserves.
The CharacterStrong Certified School program is here to change that. It:
- Celebrates your progress and investment in whole child supports
- Guides your team with clear, evidence-based practices
- Connects you to a broader community of schools committed to the work
- Inspires continuous improvement rooted in your school and community’s values
.CS Certified Level I. - “Spotlight School” April 2025
- Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking to highlight the impact of your work with CharacterStrong — we want to spotlight your efforts. Schools submitting for this recognition provide a brief summary of their current practices, outcomes, and stories that showcase how students and educators are driving belonging, well-being, and engagement. Our team reviews submissions and celebrates schools demonstrating a commitment to building a culture where students are consistently supported to meet the demands of learning and life.
Perfect for schools getting started or building momentum.
.CS Certified Level I - “Spotlight School” April 2025.
- Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking to highlight the impact of your work with CharacterStrong — we want to spotlight your efforts. Schools submitting for this recognition provide a brief summary of their current practices, outcomes, and stories that showcase how students and educators are driving belonging, well-being, and engagement. Our team reviews submissions and celebrates schools demonstrating a commitment to building a culture where students are consistently supported to meet the demands of learning and life.
Perfect for schools getting started or building momentum.
.CS Certified Level II. - “Impact School” Sept 2025
- Impact Schools are building intentional systems that support both students and educators — and it’s making a measurable difference in student performance and school culture. Schools submitting for this recognition follow our Educator Guide, submit exemplars, and provide data aligned to a rubric based on best practices in implementation, MTSS, and school-wide behavior support. Submissions highlight consistent practices and emerging outcomes that show how your work is strengthening culture and improving student support.
Ideal for schools building consistency and deepening their impact.
.CS Certified Level III - “Flagship School” July 2026
- Flagship Schools have moved beyond implementation — you're leading the way. Schools submitting for this recognition demonstrate strong alignment with the CharacterStrong approach, provide evidence of system-wide impact, and share powerful stories of how students and staff are transforming the school experience. Submissions include data, documentation, and reflections that speak to both outcomes and leadership. Our team conducts a comprehensive review, including a virtual or onsite visit. Flagship Schools serve as national models for what’s possible when we lead with relationships and evidence-based practices. Suggested for schools with a strong track record of impact and a desire to champion this work within their community and beyond.
