Character On Track

The Lennox High School Champions of Character, Emily Plucker, Austin Richter, and Andrew Daugherty were with the students at LWC Intermediate School on April 13th. They talked to them about belonging, and why belonging is so important in your school life as well as your everyday life. It’s finding people who are good friends you can talk to and will listen to you with your problems. And it’s also about you being that good friend to your group.

The seniors told them to avoid being someone you are not. If you are trying to just fit into a group just because it’s the popular group, but that’s no who you are, then recognize it’s time to make a change. You want to be the special person you are, and not the one the group wants you to be. Be someone others can trust, and someone who is always kind and considerate.

The Champions asked the young students what it means to be a good teammate. They said it is not only playing your best, but it’s also being the leader who will help pick up teammates when they might be down. Working together as a team, whether it’s in sports, or in fine arts, or in the classroom, means we have to make an effort to always make sure everyone on the team is included and feels they have value. The seniors felt the good characteristics of a team leader means you don’t underestimate or pre-judge anyone. If you are a leader, you will get to know everyone and embrace the differences.

Emily, Austin and Andrew challenged the audience to mix things up at lunch, and everyone go find someone new to sit with. Just for one day, break up all those friend tables. You will be amazed at what you learn about yourself and about others. They concluded their program by reminding the young students to make an effort to make sure everyone feels valued. Understand that people may hurt you, but let that go and be a forgiving person. Move on to another day and a better tomorrow. Do this, work hard in school, and focus on always being a good friend and you will definitely find success.

Character On Track is a nonprofit agency providing character education frameworks for youth in schools and communities in Southeast South Dakota and Northwest Iowa. The foundation of the organization is based on the Five Marks of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Accountability, Citizenship, and Kindness.