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 2024. Due to demand, there will be another opportunity to take the Certificate in spring 2024. A special rate will be offered for school districts interested in sponsoring a unique cohort. Contact Marsha Webster for more information. 


Character Education Certificate

The Certificate is offered in an online, asynchronous format and includes interaction with an instructor or facilitator.  

"When I initially signed up to take this class I was thinking that character education would help me with some of the SEL lessons that I am already using in my classroom. I realize after the Module 1 lessons that Character Education is a companion to SEL. Together they will help me to “nurture the positive development of my students” by creating a caring and safe learning environment where character can be fostered. Anytime you can take a class and put ideas into practice from the class then you know it was worthwhile." Sara Voller, D204 Third Grade Teacher, Gombert Elementary School

 

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M.Ed. in Educational Leadership Details

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