Elmsford Schools to Implement Stephen Covey's "7 Habits" Philosophy District-Wide

The Elmsford Union Free School District is kicking off the new school year by implementing Dr. Stephen Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” in all district schools.

The popular book, which was first published in 1988 as a business self-help guide, is based on Dr. Covey’s research surrounding the principles of fairness, integrity, honesty and human dignity.

Superintendent Dr. Marc Baiocco describes the initiative as a practical approach to character education.

“Too often, educators focus on the jargon and lose the opportunity for a teachable moment,” he said.

For the past eight years as principal of Alexander Hamilton Jr./Sr. High School, Dr. Baiocco encouraged the use of the Habits philosophy to address the social and emotional needs of students and staff in the high school.

“I was fortunate to be a part of the transformational power of the Habits on a school,” he added. “As superintendent, I look forward to the district-wide implementation of the philosophy to address the whole child.”

District staff will receive training on the “7 Habits” in the upcoming months, and a number of student activities are being planned to coincide with the training.

Dr. Baiocco said he hopes the philosophy will provide “powerful lessons on improving our mindset and creating a culture of student empowerment.