Babler, Chesterfield, Eureka Elementary, Selvidge Named National Schools of Character

Babler, Chesterfield and Eureka elementary schools and Selvidge Middle have each been certified as a 2025 National School of Character by Character.org.

These four Rockwood schools are among 71 schools nationally that have been designated as National Schools of Character for 2025. They are also among 13 schools in the state of Missouri to earn recognition this year.

This is the first time Eureka has earned National School of Character, the second time for Babler, third time for Selvidge and fourth time for Chesterfield, the only school in the state to have earned the national distinction four times. 

"This prestigious honor reflects the incredible work, commitment and heart that our entire school community brings to building a culture of respect, responsibility and kindness," said Chesterfield Principal Cody Dusenberry. "This recognition belongs to every student, staff member and family who helps make Chesterfield a place where character is not just taught — it's lived every day. From the small acts of kindness in our hallways to the big commitments to doing what's right, you’ve all made this possible. Thank you for helping to make Chesterfield not only a place of academic excellence but also a home for compassion, integrity and community."

This recognition is given to schools who have achieved a standard of excellence in character development through their exemplary implementation of Character.org's 11 Principles of Effective Character Education, a framework for whole-school improvement​. A team of trained evaluators assess each school based on these principles. Schools of Character earn their designations for five years.  

“We are pleased to announce and celebrate the schools and school districts that have earned this national recognition,” said Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org. “Each of these schools has put in place a comprehensive approach to help students understand, care about, and consistently practice the character strengths that will help them flourish in school, in relationships, in the workplace, and as citizens.”

In all, 22 Rockwood schools and programs have been named National Schools of Character. The program recognizes schools that demonstrate a focus on character development that has positively impacted academic achievement, student behavior and school climate. 

"Earning the title of National School of Character is a validation of the hard work our students and staff do to learn and live by our core values of Belonging, Respect, Grit, Growth, Kindness, Empathy and Accountability," said Eureka Elementary Principal Dr. Corinne Luczak. "We are not perfect, but we work each day to get a little bit better, and as our school mission statement says, to Love to Learn, Learn to Lead and Lead with Love!"