Third-Graders Learn About Character

By Carolyn Cicero, third grade teacher at

Kindness, love, honesty, fairness, responsibility, friendship, respect, generosity, forgiveness, patience, courage and hope—these were the 12 virtues third grade students at Tenth Street Elementary School studied for a project that explored the meaning of "character" and the attributes of good citizenship.

The project was designed to inspire the students to recognize the importance of developing a positive character. As part of the weekly sessions, students illustrated each of the virtues.

The project culminated with a community service component. Twelve drawings representing the students' best artwork were chosen for a calendar with a different virtue highlighted each month.

The students published the calendar and sold it to friends and family in the Oakmont community just before the holidays. The proceeds were used to buy supplies needed at the Animal Protectors of Allegheny County.