Character Initiatives
North Central College is committed to inspiring well equipped, principled, responsible leaders. That’s why we partnered with the Kern Family Foundation, who provided a 4.5-year, $3.2 million grant—the College’s largest private grant ever—to launch character initiatives designed to have a lasting impact.
Through this process, North Central College will be a place where educators, aspiring leaders, administrators, and community members develop social, emotional, and ethical competencies to influence transformation in themselves and others.
PROJECT COMPONENT 1
Master of Education Program
The Master of Education in Educational Leadership program was designed to prepare innovative, impactful leaders for PK-12 schools while meeting Illinois principal endorsement requirements. The character infused focus of the curriculum prepares aspiring leaders to foster a school culture that enriches social and emotional skills. Classes meet virtually and are offered in 8 week sessions.
PROJECT COMPONENT 2
Character Education Certificate
The Character Education Certificate provides professional development for teachers, specialists, administrators, undergraduate education majors, and other community stakeholders to foster thriving communities of character in their areas of influence.
The Character Education Certificate will transition to a graduate credit course in spring 2024. Cohorts begun in fall 2023 will be offered one final time at the low rate of $150 for 45 professional development units.