The Six Pillars of Character are the foundational ethical values of CHARACTER COUNTS!, identified in 1992 by a nonpartisan, secular group of youth development experts. These values transcend cultural, religious and socioeconomic differences.

The Six Pillars of Character are: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. We recommend integrating these Pillars into your character education or social-emotional learning (SEL) initiative, following the acronym “T.R.R.F.C.C.” (terrific) in this specific order.

Each Pillar contributes to fostering a positive school climate and cultivating a culture of kindness, creating safe environments where students can thrive academically and socially.

Trustworthiness

• Be honest. Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal.
  
• Have integrity. Do what you say you’ll do.
  
• Keep your promises.
  
• Be loyal. Stand by your values.

Respect 

• Follow the Golden Rule.
  
• Be accepting of differences.
  
• Be courteous to others.
  
• Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements.
  
• Be considerate of others’ feelings.
  

Responsibility 

• Do what you are supposed to do. Try your best.
  
• Persevere. Keep on trying.
  
• Be self-disciplined.
  
• Think before you act. Consider the consequences.
  
• Be accountable for your words, actions and attitudes.
  

Fairness

• Play by the rules.
  
• Take turns and share.
  
• Be open-minded. Listen to others.
  
• Don’t take advantage of others.
  

Caring

• Be kind.
  
• Be compassionate.
  
• Express gratitude.
  
• Forgive others.
  

Citizenship

• Do your share to make your home, school and community better.
  
• Cooperate.
  
• Stay informed. Vote.
  
• Be a good neighbor.
  
• Make choices that protect the safety and rights of others.
  
• Protect the environment.