Character Counts in Johnston, City Marks Occasion with Proclamation

The city of Johnston showed its character on Monday evening.

Johnston Mayor Paula Dierenfeld read a proclamation declaring the week of Oct. 21 to Oct. 27 Character Counts Week.

"This is truly one of the best programs in this community," Dierenfeld said before the council and about 40 students, parents and educators gathered for the proclamation.

Johnston Superintendent of Schools Clay Guthmiller said the district appreciates the partnership with the city.

"It's an important week, next week as we celebrate character counts in our schools," he said. "It's important to know we have two over arching goals, academic success and personal growth of our students."

Guthmiller said the schools are proud to be involved with the Character Counts program, and aspires to the pillars of fairness, trustworthiness, caring, respect, responsibility and citizenship.

Dierenfeld asked the students what they thought her favorite pillar was.

"Citizenship," several respond in unison.

"That is my favorite for a lot of different reasons," she said. "It's important to participate in the community, support our community and do a service."

To mark Character Counts Week, schools will host special activities.