Creating Character

Character education has long been an important part of the Merritt Academy experience. Merritt’s commitment to developing the whole child has been recognized through past distinctions in character education, reflecting a longstanding emphasis on helping students grow not only academically, but also socially and ethically.

Character development is woven throughout school life. Through daily interactions, service learning, leadership opportunities, and our Intergenerational Program, students are encouraged to practice integrity, respect, responsibility, empathy, and compassion. These experiences help students build meaningful relationships, make thoughtful decisions, and understand the positive impact they can have on others.

At Merritt, we believe academic growth and character development go hand in hand. By nurturing both, we help students develop the confidence, values, and skills they need to become thoughtful leaders, engaged community members, and lifelong learners.

Two red outlined figures, one larger than the other, stand against a plain white background.

Intergenerational Program

Students connect with senior citizens, building empathy and meaningful relationships across generations.

Two red stick figures stand side-by-side against a plain white background.

Project Pals

Older and younger students collaborate on projects fostering mentorship and a strong sense of community throughout the year.

Two cupped hands in the foreground hold a red outline of a heart against a white background.

Service Learning

Students learn the importance of giving back through service opportunities and community outreach.

A red-outlined white star is centered against a plain white background.

Student Leadership

Student develop confidence and responsibility through leadership opportunities throughout school.

Older child helping younger child with project.

Character is Built Through Relationships

Character is developed through everyday moments—helping a younger student, showing kindness to a classmate, serving the community, or learning from someone with a different perspective.

Students put these values into practice through leadership opportunities such as Student Council, Peer Mentoring, National Junior Honor Society, service-learning projects, and Merritt's renowned Intergenerational Program. As an IB Candidate School pursuing authorization for the Middle Years Programme, Merritt also encourages students to become caring, principled, open-minded, and reflective learners who make a positive impact in their communities.

By providing meaningful opportunities to lead, serve, and collaborate, Merritt empowers students to develop the confidence, empathy, and integrity they need to thrive both in school and beyond.

The Merritt Character Journey

Values We Practice Throughout the Year

Each month students focus on character traits that help them become thoughtful, responsible, and compassionate members of their communities.

Month	Character and Focus
January	Caring and Patience
February	Love and Honesty
March	Kindness and Forgiveness
April	Courage and Tolerance
May	Helpfulness and Perseverance
June	Politeness and Neatness
July	Citizenship and Loyalty
August	Cooperation and Initiative
September	Respect and Attentiveness
October	Sharing and Self Control
November	Thankfulness and Responsibility
December	Joyfulness and Wisdom