Prior to implementing CharacterStrong, the elementary schools within Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) faced significant behavioral challenges. Jeremy Scharfe, Dixie Elementary Vice Principal shared:
“There was a lot of disciplinary referrals, a lot of behavior issues. There were a lot of fights. It seemed a little frantic…" Another educator shared, "For so long, all we did was focus on academics and didn’t pay attention to the behavior part.”
Many students had experienced trauma, and staff recognized the need to create an environment where learning could take place and relationships could thrive. Felicia Carter, Dixie Elementary School Counselor explained:
"I feel like our children are overly exposed to a lot of things that I probably did not have to ever hear, see, or witness when I was in elementary school. But now our students are, and I hate that for them.”
A Structured, Schoolwide Approach
JCPS first adopted CharacterStrong in 2021 specifically for its elementary schools, seeing it as a perfect match for younger students who are like little sponges, eager to absorb guidance, routines, and social-emotional skills.Observing the program’s benefits, the district committed to full implementation.
The program is embedded as the first activity of the day, giving students a consistent start with simple, age-appropriatecommunity-building exercises that help them practice taking turns, sharing, naming emotions, and connecting with classmates.
Schools that integrate CharacterStrong into their master schedules have seen the greatest success, dedicating specific time to both the “Start” and the “Grow” components of the curriculum, what Felicia calls the “meat and potatoes” of the lessons.
Peer Mentorship Strengthens Connections
Senior student mentors also play a role. London, a high school senior, leads tier 2 groups to support students with moderate and high-risk behaviors.
Through these mentorships, JCPS has reached 100% of their tier 2 and tier 3 students, ensuring all flagged students receive targeted support. Many students “graduate” out of the program as their behaviors improve, reflecting measurable growth.
These mentoring relationships have been especially impactful for elementary-age students who often respond more openly to “big kid” mentors. High school students model calm breathing, emotional naming, and problem-solving, skills that younger learners can immediately mirror.
Dramatic Improvements in Behavior and Belonging
Just two years in, CharacterStrong has helped JCPS see impactful results:
Disciplinary referrals dropped from 436 to 217 in the first year and from 217 to 89 after the second year
Students reporting a sense of belonging, safety, and desire to be at school have increased
Percentage of students with no referrals increased from 70% to 86%, even with enrollment growth
A Foundation for Lifelong Success
CharacterStrong equips students with skills to manage themselves, their emotions, and their relationships. Staff emphasize that intentional, high-fidelity implementation can shape not just behaviors but trajectories:
“If we do it with intentionality, passion, and intensity, we really do as educators have an opportunity to shape and mold these beings that are going to be amazing people out in our society,” shared Felicia.
For younger students, these daily routines build early habits of kindness, self-awareness, and problem-solving — skills that will carry with them into later grades. When elementary learners feel calm, connected, and cared for, they are far more ready to succeed academically in all areas.
By prioritizing belonging, consistency, and peer-led mentorship, JCPS schools are creating safer, more supportive classrooms, fostering student growth, and ensuring that every little learner thrives academically and socially.
Want to learn how CharacterStrong can make a different at your school? Book a call with our team here to get started today!