Character Education

Our Mission: The Swain School is a vibrant community, which inspires students to achieve academic excellence, develop a strong sense of character, and act responsibly in a changing world. We empower children to build confidence, explore knowledge, and work collaboratively in a diverse and safe environment.

• Virtues of the Month — Every month a different virtue is highlighted with special activities, writing opportunities, all-school assemblies, and “teachable moments.” Our virtues include Goodness, Compassion, Thankfulness, Courage, Patience, and Stewardship.

• Community Service Program — Embedded in the curriculum, our community service program teaches our students what it means to be a citizen of the world. Middle school students travel off campus at least twice a year to serve our community; they might serve lunch at a local shelter, clean up a playground, or visit an assisted living facility. School-wide, all students are involved in collections of winter coats, food, pet supplies, money, and other donations.

• Buddy Program — Older students become role models to younger children, which pairs them for study, play and special activities.

• Town Meetings — Both the Lower- and Middle School gather for individual, weekly town meetings. This time, for teacher and student announcements, outside speakers, student presentations, assemblies, etc., is vital for our community to share experiences and fosters a sense of belonging and inclusion.

• Advisors — All sixth to eighth grade students are assigned an Advisor, with whom they meet for 10 minutes each morning and for 40 minutes several days per week. The advisor gives the student a person to help with structure, resolve issues, share information, and be a point of contact for families.

• Wellness Class — Every third-eighth grader takes a Wellness class designed for the needs appropriate to their age. It includes such topics as decision-making, healthy food choices, and handling relationships. Read more...

• Inspiration Speech — Each eighth grader gives a three-to-five minute speech about someone or something in their life that inspires them. It is presented to the entire middle school community and accompanied by a multimedia presentation.