Charleston Day School

Charleston Day School

Character Education

How We Teach Character

Hold the door open for a fellow classmate. Make eye contact as you greet an adult. Tell the truth when it would be easier to remain silent. These behaviors that demonstrate character are so commonplace among our students that it would be easy to take them for granted. However, these traits often set our students apart.

Video: Character Education at Charleston Day

At Charleston Day School, the character development of our students has shared equal billing with academic development since its inception by Mary Stuart and Emily Tenney 85 years ago. That guiding principle continues to define who we are today.

Daily Lessons

Every adult on this campus is focused on instilling these traits in our students. It is not uncommon to see a primary school teacher redirect an 8th grader in the hallway. Or the business manager may remind students of table manners as she sits with them during lunch. If a social issue pops up on the playground, the teacher will use the opportunity to teach a life lesson to the class. We are undaunted in our commitment to teaching integrity, respect and responsibility through high expectations.

Students Serve Community

On campus

In a formal way, our youngest students discuss character traits as part of their morning meeting. In Kindergarten through 8th grade, students receive weekly Character instruction.  Students also participate in a number of in-service projects that benefit local charities such as Book Angels, Lowcountry Food Bank, Birthdays for All, Canterbury House, Fisher House, Toys for Tots, Charleston Animal Society and more.

in the community

Community service is encouraged and celebrated. In their neighborhoods throughout the community, Charleston Day students hold lemonade stands for charity, collect trash from the roadway or help a neighbor with yard chores.

Our Mission

Teachers dine with students, teaching manners and conversation skills.

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Leadership

Middle school students are role models.

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Public Speaking

Students leave CDS as confident public speakers.

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1937
Year founded
250
Total students
20+
Community Service Projects
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