At Oakstone Academy, we believe in educating the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while placing a strong emphasis on character and leadership development. Alongside academic success, we prioritize personal growth and social responsibility, guiding students to move beyond simply reacting to rewards and consequences and instead develop a deeper understanding of their choices and actions.

Character education, leadership, and service form the foundation of daily life at Oakstone. These traits are intentionally embedded into both instruction and school culture. In addition to being taught explicitly, our staff consistently model these values, using strong relationships and everyday teachable moments to reinforce character development across all academic and social experiences.

Oakstone Academy Elementary School:

In Oakstone Academy Elementary School, our character education program introduces and reinforces the following core traits:

• Trustworthiness

• Respect

• Responsibility

• Fairness

• Caring

• Citizenship

Students explore these essential character traits throughout the year through engaging activities such as literature-based lessons, discussions, classroom projects, assemblies, service opportunities, and the school-wide Oak Leaf incentive program. Through these experiences, students begin building a strong moral foundation that supports both their academic and personal growth.

Middle School:

As students transition into middle school, they continue to deepen their understanding and application of these character traits. In addition to ongoing integration within daily instruction, structured character education courses are offered to 5th and 7th grade students as part of their elective options. These courses provide a dedicated space to reflect on and strengthen character development.

School-wide recognition programs such as “You’ve Been Spotted” and “Stepping Up and Standing Out” highlight and celebrate students who demonstrate positive character in action, reinforcing a culture of respect, responsibility, and personal accountability.

Oakstone Academy High School:

In Oakstone Academy High School, character education evolves into a focused leadership experience. A dedicated leadership course, offered to 9th grade students, expands upon foundational character traits and emphasizes their application in personal, academic, and career success.

The development of strong character traits is essential for success in both personal and professional life, as they shape how individuals think, act, and interact with others. Traits such as attitude, preparation, perseverance, and self-control form the foundation for academic achievement and long-term success. A positive attitude influences how challenges are approached, while preparation ensures readiness and confidence in any situation. Perseverance helps individuals push through obstacles, and self-control enables thoughtful decision-making and the ability to stay focused on goals. Together, these traits build resilience, discipline, and a mindset geared toward continuous growth.

Equally important are traits that guide how individuals relate to others and contribute to their communities. Integrity, empathy, compassion, and loyalty foster trust, respect, and meaningful relationships. Courage allows individuals to stand up for what is right, while appreciation, gratitude, and tolerance encourage a mindset of respect and understanding for others’ perspectives and experiences. A strong sense of duty and leadership empowers individuals to take responsibility, serve others, and make a positive impact. When these traits are cultivated together, they prepare individuals not only to succeed personally, but also to lead with purpose, contribute to society, and positively influence the world around them.

Through discussion, reflection, and real-world application, students learn how these traits translate into meaningful leadership and lifelong success. By the time they graduate, Oakstone students are not only academically prepared, but also equipped with the character and leadership skills needed to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.