Summary
CHARACTERplus Way provides an organizational approach to SEL. It includes programming for grades 6-12 and demonstrates evidence of effectiveness at grades 8 and 11.
Strategies supporting educational equity (CASEL)
CHARACTERplus Way features strategies for creating youth action projects. This includes a framework for developing collaborative solutions to community and social problems. Student-directed service learning projects are a primary feature of this program.
Implementation
Below are key implementation details for this program. These specifications help determine if the program is a good fit for your school or organization.
Grade(s)
High School (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Setting
Classroom, Community, Home, Schoolwide
Language
English
Cost
Pricing available through provider
# Lessons
None - organizational approach to SEL
Program Design
Tier 1 (Universal)
Technology Requirements
None Required
Staffing Requirements
No additional staffing required
Professional Development
On-site, Virtual, Train the Trainer,
Outcomes
Improved Academic Performance
Reduced Emotional Distress
Improved Identity Development/ Agency
Reduced Problem Behavior
Improved School Climate
Improved School Connectedness
Improved Prosocial Behavior
Improved Teaching Practices
Improved SEL Skills and Attitudes
Advocate for reducing stigma associated with emotional and mental and behavioral health
Compare & contrast emotional, mental-behavioral illness, mental well-being and concurrent disorders
Describe how self-harm or suicide impacts other people
Describe laws related to minors accessing mental health care
Explain how to help someone who is thinking about attempting suicide
Identify school and community resources that can help a person with emotional, mental and behavioral health concerns
Decreased suicidal behavior
Improved attitude/behavior related to suicide
Increased help-seeking behavior
Improved identification of individuals at-risk for suicide
Decreased substance use
Improved attitude/behavior related to substance use
Evidence of Effectiveness
Results from a randomized controlled trial conducted in the 2005-2006 academic year (unpublished report written in 2006) supported the effectiveness of CHARACTERplus Way for middle and high school students. This evaluation included grade 8 and 11 students enrolled in schools in the U.S. Southeast. This evaluation found that students who participated in the program demonstrated significantly more positive perceptions of school climate and decreases in bullying behaviors compared to students in the control group (outcomes reported one year after baseline). However, CHARACTERplus Way evaluations have also found that the control group outperformed treatment students on outcomes of interest and it is for that reason, CHARACTERplus is designated as Promising.
Published Studies
Refer to the provided CASEL for the most up-to-date published studies.
Marshall, J.C., Caldwell, S.D. (2006). Baldwin County ShowMe Character Implementation Project. Evaluation Report. Unpublished report.