6 Years of Character Growth at Imagine School at Broward

This article was written by Mary-Chelsea Hand, Curriculum Coach at Imagine School at Broward. Mary-Chelsea brings 13 years of experience in education and holds an M.Ed. and an M.S. in Early Childhood Education. Imagine School at Broward is a K-8 public charter school located in Coral Springs, Florida, and has been implementing The Positivity Project for six years.

At Imagine School at Broward, Positivity Project (P2) is not treated as an add-on or a separate program. Instead, it is part of the rhythm of our school day. P2 serves as a framework for the way we interact with one another. Teachers intentionally weave character strengths into existing routines such as learning targets, class discussions, collaborative learning, parent-teacher conferences, and reflection opportunities. Imagine Broward hosts a team of committed educators that connect character strengths to real moments, allowing all to celebrate perseverance during a challenging math task, discuss empathy during language arts conversations, or recognizing teamwork during group projects or sporting events. Over time, implementation of the Positivity Project has helped students see that character is not just something we talk about once a week, but something we practice and live out every day.

Six Years of Building a Shared Character Language

Since implementing P2 six years ago, Imagine Broward has noticed a meaningful shift in both classroom dynamics and overall positive school culture. Students and staff are developing a shared language that helps them express how they are feeling, resolve conflicts, and identify positive behaviors in themselves and as well as in others. Classrooms feel more supportive and collaborative because students are learning how their actions impact those around them. Students continue to strengthen their ability to navigate relationships through character strengthening language.

Teachers express through specifically teaching character education, they have seen decreases in conflict resolution that require adult intervention.

A Story of Peer-Led Growth

One moment that stands out involved a student who frequently became frustrated during cooperative learning activities. In the past, this frustration sometimes led to unproductiveness and/or conflict with peers. After several months of positive character conversations, classmates began encouraging the student by naming strengths such as self-control and perseverance. Peers turned to offering support and naming character strengths. The student gradually began to reset more quickly and positively participate in activities. It is in the small moments where we reflect a larger change. Classmates continue to take ownership of their classroom culture.

How K-8 Students Internalize Character Strengths

K-8 students have strongly responded to learning about character strengths because it gives them words to describe who they are becoming and name actions they are doing. Students take pride in recognizing character strengths in their classmates. Teachers often hear students say things like, “You showed kindness,” or “That was brave,” without prompting. These interactions show students are internalizing and connecting the concepts rather than simply completing a lesson. The focus on building positive relationships has also helped students feel more comfortable taking academic risks, asking questions, and supporting each other throughout the learning process.

Strengthening the Home-to-School Connection

Over the years, families have responded positively to P2. Parents share that their students are talking about what they learned and pointing out character strengths they notice in family members. The shared language embedded within P2 has helped strengthen home-to-school connection. Families are more understanding of the values being emphasized and taught during the school day. Many parents appreciate that character education is being taught alongside academics. This practice allows for skill reinforcement that extends beyond the classroom and our school building.

Our Vision: A Caring Learning Community

Our goal is to cultivate a caring learning community where everyone feels a true sense of belonging and has the support and opportunities to build and reflect on the character strengths that guide moral decision making. Imagine Broward is implementing P2 to strengthen the capacity of all stakeholders by meaningful teaching and modeling of character strengths. At Imagine Broward, we recognize strong relationships are the foundation of meaningful learning, and P2 provides a framework that aligns with our belief in educating the whole child. P2 allowed us to refine practices using common language and purpose.

Over time, we have adapted P2 to reflect our school community. Character strengths are intentionally connected to our core values and integrated into schoolwide celebrations, classroom recognition, and daily conversations. Teachers personalize lessons to meet the needs of their students.

Why P2 Matters at Imagine Broward

P2 matters to Imagine Broward because it reminds us of the importance of relationships. While we focus on character, it allows us to equip students with qualities that support both content learning and life beyond school. P2 works well for our school because it meets students and teachers where they are. Students are engaged in developmentally and socially appropriate lessons and discussions. Our students benefit from learning opportunities to practice communication, collaboration, and reflection. The Positivity Project strengthens our ability as a school to support teachers and students while providing a safe and proactive learning environment.

Academic achievement grows when all students and staff feel safe, valued, and connected.

Beyond Expectations: Building an Understanding of Character

P2 has helped us move beyond teaching classroom and school-wide expectations to building an understanding of character.

Students are learning what positive behavior looks like and why it matters. Through the resources and routines of P2, Imagine School at Broward is building the capacity of all individuals who contribute to our shared teaching and learning community. Classrooms feel more connected, students feel more supported, and our school continues to grow into a place where both character and academic excellence are equally valued.