CHARACTER COUNTS! in the Round Lake Area is taught and celebrated thoroughout the community on light poles, school builidings, and the Round Lake Beach water tower. The six pillars of Character are Respect, Trustworthiness, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship. 

Character Counts! meetings are held the third Tuesday of each Month at 8:30 am at the Hainesville Village Hall. All are welcome.

May, 2010 the Annual Character Counts Award Ceremong will be held.  Please fill out the award nomination form located on the left side of this page. Nominate youth, adults, organizations, groups and any others that have exhibited one or more of the traits of the six pillars. Nominations are due to Kathy Myers (KMyers@rlas-116.org) by April 2010

The Six Pillars of Character

The CHARACTER COUNTS! approach to character education doesn't exclude anyone. That's why we base our programs and materials on six ethical values that everyone can agree on — values that are not political, religious, or culturally biased. Use the points below to help young people understand the Six Pillars.

Trustworthiness

Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat or steal • Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be loyal — stand by your family, friends and country

Respect

Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others • Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements

Responsibility

Do what you are supposed to do • Persevere: keep on trying! • Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act — consider the consequences • Be accountable for your choices

Fairness

Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly

Caring

Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need

Citizenship

Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate • Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority • Protect the environment