Two Lake Washington Schools Receive 'Schools Of Character' Award

REDMOND, WA — Two Eastside elementary schools received national recognition this week, joining just a few dozen others across the United States to be named "State Schools of Character." According to the Lake Washington School District, Ella Baker Elementary and Clara Barton Elementary, both in Redmond, became Washington's first schools to make the annual list assembled by Character.org.

The organization judges schools and districts across the state that "demonstrate a dedicated focus on character development which has a positive effect on academic achievement, student behavior, and school climate," the district said.

"Congratulations to both Ella Baker Elementary and Clara Barton Elementary for receiving this recognition," said Jon Holmen, the district's superintendent. "Along with the recognition, our school teams receive evaluative feedback, strengths, and areas for growth and are able to collaborate with Character.org consultants for support. We are thrilled to be able to continue on our journey developing character initiatives."

Judges review applications and assign scores before issuing certifications at the end of January. Each honor is valid for five years. This year, 67 schools were recognized across the nation, with Lake Washington receiving the state's only two awards.