Our Character Development Program
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OUR CORE VIRTUES: CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
OUR CORE VIRTUES: 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.
Click each image to learn more about each virtue.
August/September
Curiosity: The desire to explore, question, and understand the world. Students are encouraged to ask questions, seek answers, and think critically about how knowledge connects to real life. At VALA NC, curiosity sparks learning and transforms knowledge into discovery.
Nova the Owl is wise, observant, and endlessly inquisitive. She looks beyond the obvious, asking thoughtful questions that lead to discovery. Nova reminds students that curiosity is the spark of learning, the courage to wonder, explore, and grow.
October
Respect: Treating others with kindness, dignity, and fairness. Respect builds a positive online and classroom community. Students learn to value diverse opinions, communicate courteously, and care for digital and physical learning spaces.
Ripple the Dolphin is kind, attentive, and understanding. He listens before acting, values every voice, and helps others shine. RIpple's harmony with others teaches that true respect begins with empathy, communication, and cooperation.
November
Integrity: Doing what is right even when no one is watching. Integrity is the foundation of trust and academic honesty. VALA NC students are expected to act with fairness and responsibility, modeling truthfulness in all work and interactions.
Caden the Cardinal is brave, principled, and unwavering. He stands tall for truth, fairness, and honor, doing what is right even when no one is watching. Caden's bright red feathers symbolize courage and authenticity, the essence of moral strength.
December
Service: Helping others and contributing to the common good. Service empowers students to apply their learning for the benefit of others. Through school and community projects, students develop empathy and leadership by making a positive impact.
Harmony the Bee is helpful, diligent, and community-minded. She works with purpose and joy, always contributing to something larger than herself. Harmony reminds students that service creates unity, and every small act of kindness builds a stronger hive.
January
Perseverance: Continuing to work hard even when challenges arise. VALA NC students learn that success takes time and effort. Perseverance means staying focused, solving problems creatively, and viewing mistakes as opportunities to grow.
Trek the Turtle is steady, patient, and determined. He moves forward no matter how long the journey, showing that slow and steady effort leads to lasting success. Trek's quiet strength inspires persistence through every challenge.
February
Responsibility: Being accountable for one’s actions, choices, and commitments. Responsibility in a virtual setting means managing time, completing work independently, and following through with commitments to teachers and peers.
Cedar the Parrot is reliable, alert, and communicative. She keeps her word and helps others stay accountable. Cedar's vibrant voice reminds students that responsibility means owning your actions, following through, and speaking with honesty.
March
Innovation: Creating new ideas and approaches to improve learning and life. Students practice innovation through project-based learning and technology integration. VALA NC values creativity and forward thinking to solve real-world problems.
Pixel the Robot is creative, curious, and inventive. It loves to build, explore, and find new ways to solve problems. Pixel's adaptable mind reminds students that innovation grows when we imagine boldly and learn from every experiment.
April
Self-Discipline: Controlling one’s behavior, effort, and focus to reach his/her goals. Self-discipline helps students stay organized, manage distractions, and take initiative in their virtual learning environment. Self-discipline builds confidence and reliability.
Focus the Dragonfly is calm, balanced, and mindful. He glides through challenges with grace, reminding students that true strength comes from inner control. With patience and persistence, Focus turns goals into achievements.
May
Empathy: Understanding and caring about how others feel. Empathy connects students in a compassionate, inclusive community. It teaches kindness, patience, and the importance of listening and helping others succeed.
Echo the Elephant is gentle, wise, and deeply compassionate. She listens with her heart, understanding how others feel and offering comfort when it’s needed most. Echo's presence teaches that empathy connects us and makes every community stronger.
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