Pursuing Virtue

We believe that to unlock the unique potential of every child, to prepare this generation for the challenges ahead, we must shape them with an education that is deeply human. 

Often in our world today there is too much talking without enough listening, less civility and respect, more noise, and less space to think and reflect. This makes educating the next generation harder than ever.

 TO OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES…

  • We must teach students to listen, so they can learn how to speak.
  • We must teach them to think clearly, so they can think for themselves.
  • We must give students the wisdom of the ages, so they can bring fresh insight to the present.
  • And we must teach the young to love what is greater than themselves – Truth, Goodness, and Beauty.
  • This type of education is hard work for all involved – for students, parents, and teachers.

The Great Hearts endeavor is held together by a north star that we all seek — virtue. Ultimately, education is not just about forming smart scholars, but about forming flourishing, great-hearted human beings. We believe our students’ character and talents can spark a renaissance in civic life in which a search for what is good is the essential starting point. 

 

Great Hearts Core Virtues: Our Code of Conduct

Responsibility
We accept obligations related to our own good and the good of others, and we act on those obligations in a manner suitable to their timely and satisfactory fulfillment. We are willingly accountable for what we do and say, and we seek to learn from our mistakes.

Perseverance
We spurn despair and strive to complete tasks to the best of our abilities, regardless of the difficulty. We respond creatively to overcome obstacles and ask for help when necessary.

Integrity
We are individuals of strong ethical values, who make consistently good choices in keeping with our knowledge of right and wrong. We seek the wisdom of others in cases of moral uncertainty.

Honesty
We never knowingly induce another to believe what is false. We are always truthful in what we say and do, regardless of the circumstances or consequences.

Courage
We always do what we know to be right despite fear, hardship, and opposition. We resist negative peer pressure, defend our rights and the rights of others, and encourage others to do the same.

Citizenship
We honor rules and laws and respond to authority in obedience. We give of our time and abilities to serve others. We uphold liberty and social equality through respect for individual differences and knowledge of our democratic system.

Humility
We do not brag or compare ourselves to others. We always strive to do our best whether we are
recognized or not.

Friendship
We regard others and ourselves as deserving of kind and just treatment. Our conduct is considerate and polite. We look for the good in others and demonstrate compassion. Our attitudes toward others and their property reflect the way we wish to be treated.

Wisdom
We learn from our mistakes and think before we act. We look to the great thinkers of the past for guidance on making good choices.