CHARACTER

Success in life depends on both academics and character. We help students foster character strengths that are essential for their own success and well-being — and we empower them to express their voice to improve the world around them.

7 KEY CHARACTER STRENGTHS

KIPP’s character work focuses on the seven strengths that are critical for an engaged, happy, and successful life. Our character framework was developed by educators at KIPP NYC in collaboration with Dr. Angela Duckworth, Dr. Martin Seligman, and the late Dr. Chris Peterson, and in partnership with Riverdale Country School.

CURIOSITY

Students are active in their learning and show an eagerness to explore new things and ask questions that help them deepen their understanding.

GRATITUDE

Students recognize what others did for them and express appreciation by saying thank you or do something nice for someone else as a way of thanking them.

GRIT

Students finish what they start, completing tasks despite obstacles. They show a combination of persistence and resilience. They focus and try hard even after experiencing failure.

OPTIMISM

Students expect the best in the future and work to achieve it. They get over frustrations and setbacks quickly and believe that effort will improve their future.

SELF CONTROL

Students regulate what they feel and do and are self-disciplined. They come to class prepared, pay attention and resist distractions and procrastination.

SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE

Students are aware of the motives and feelings of themselves and others. They find solutions to conflicts and demonstrate respect and inclusiveness in interpersonal and group situations.

ZEST

Students approach life and their classwork with excitement and energy. They feel alive and activated. They actively participate, show enthusiasm, and invigorate others.

RESOURCES

Check out the resource library on character education and more at the KIPP Foundation’s website.

LEARN MORE