Our Character Development Program
Our Character Development Program
At VALA NC, character development is part of everyday learning. Through our VALA Character Development Program, students develop important life skills by practicing key virtues, including curiosity, responsibility, integrity, service, perseverance, respect, innovation, self-discipline, and empathy (collectively known as the CRISP RISE Core Virtues).
These virtues are reinforced each month of the school year through daily lessons and activities that support academic success, responsible decision-making, and positive relationships.
By practicing these values regularly, students grow into confident, respectful, and resilient learners prepared for success in school and beyond.
August–September: Curiosity
Curiosity is the desire to explore, question, and understand. At VALA NC, students ask questions, make connections, and discover how learning applies to real life.
Meet Nova the Owl
Nova is wise and inquisitive. She reminds students that curiosity sparks learning and inspires exploration every day.
October: Respect
Respect means treating others with kindness, dignity, and fairness. At VALA NC, students value diverse perspectives, communicate thoughtfully, and help build a positive community.
Meet Ripple the Dolphin
Ripple is kind and attentive. He reminds students to listen, value others, and show respect through empathy and cooperation.
November: Integrity
Integrity means doing what is right—even when no one is watching. At VALA NC, it builds trust, responsibility, and honesty in all actions.
Meet Caden the Cardinal
Caden is brave and principled. He reminds students to stand for truth and fairness, showing that strong character is true strength.
December: Service
Service means helping others and contributing to the greater good. At VALA NC, students use their learning to make a positive impact and understand that small acts can make a big difference.
Meet Harmony the Bee
Harmony is helpful and community-minded. She reminds students that service brings people together and strengthens our community.
January: Perseverance
Perseverance means continuing to work hard through challenges. At VALA NC, students learn to stay focused, be resilient, and grow from mistakes.
Meet Trek the Turtle
Trek is steady and determined. He reminds students that consistent effort—even in small steps—leads to success.
February: Responsibility
Responsibility means being accountable for actions and commitments. At VALA NC, students take ownership of their learning by managing time, completing work independently, and following through—building trust and strong habits.
Meet Cedar the Parrot
Cedar is reliable and communicative. She reminds students to follow through, stay accountable, and act with honesty.
March: Innovation
Innovation means creating new ideas and better ways to solve problems. At VALA NC, students build innovation through project-based learning, creativity, and technology.
Meet Pixel the Robot
Pixel is creative and curious. It reminds students that innovation starts with imagination and grows through experimentation and learning.
April: Self-Discipline
Self-discipline means managing behavior, effort, and focus to achieve goals. At VALA NC, students learn to stay organized, manage distractions, and take initiative—building confidence, independence, and reliability.
Meet Focus the Dragonfly
Focus is calm and mindful. He shows that self-control and steady effort lead to success, reminding students that with patience and consistency, goals become achievements.
May: Empathy
Empathy means understanding and caring about how others feel. At VALA NC, it helps create a kind, inclusive community where students listen, support one another, and value different perspectives.
Meet Echo the Elephant
Echo is gentle and compassionate. She listens with her heart and reminds students that caring for others makes our community stronger.