‘Torch’ Bearers of Character Education
SST Corpus Christi, Texas, is a PK-12 school, which has embarked on an innovative journey to enhance their character education program using Kloodle for students from grades 4 through 12. The program is spearheaded by Ashton Sigler, who incorporates a values-based framework known as TORCH. These virtues form the cornerstone of the school’s approach to developing well-rounded, ethically grounded students.
Ashton says: “I really enjoy using Kloodle because it is easy for my students to navigate and I can quickly tailor it to my students’ different needs and interests. Since we have a wide array of ages, it is important to use language they understand and use age-appropriate teaching techniques. Kloodle has allowed us to teach the same lessons and have the same discussions with all of our students which is really impactful when starting a new program.”
Ashton is a candidate for the Master of Arts in Character Education at University of Birmingham.
What is the Masters Program from University of Birmingham?
The world-leading Master’s program in Character Education at the University of Birmingham in UK is designed for educators, school leaders, and professionals who aim to develop an in-depth understanding of character education. The course combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling participants to explore how virtues and moral development can be nurtured within educational settings, equiping students with the tools to foster positive character development.
SST has a tradition in this area. At this point, we’d like to convey our congratulations to Zekeriya Yuksel, Senior Director of Audit at SST, who has successfully completed his MA in Character Education from Birmingham presenting character education on Kloodle as his case study.
Encouraging Creative Skills in Young People
To kick-start this year’s program, students have been required to complete the “My Creative Type” quiz, which assesses creative personalities based on psychological research. This quiz helps students gain a deeper understanding of their inherent creative tendencies, motivations, and challenges. The results can be shared in the classroom, allowing students to explore their unique strengths while linking the experience to creative thinking, which will be one of the most important skills in the future world of work.
The Creative Types test is not just about identifying a single static personality but offers a dynamic look into how individuals express creativity at different stages of life and learning. This holistic approach fosters self-awareness and creative problem-solving, which aligns well with the TORCH virtues the programme seeks to instill.
Using Kloodle to Personalise the Journey
By integrating this character-building program with Kloodle, students at SST Corpus Christi are able to document their growth in trustworthiness, responsibility, and other virtues in a tangible, skills-based way. The platform helps students track their progress, allowing for a more reflective and personalised education journey. This not only aligns with the school’s focus on character but also encourages creative thinking and personal development, empowering students to grow into thoughtful, responsible, and compassionate individuals prepared for the future.
Starting with the Leaders
Ashton is starting what she calls the “Character Kloodle Classroom” with the National Elementary Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society, and National Honor Society organisations on campus. These are the students who have been identified as leaders and the objective is to supply them with the tools, language, and self-awareness to not only move mountains within themselves but also help staff foster a sense of belonging and strong character on campus. The ultimate goal is to incorporate all students into the program on Kloodle.
If you would like a demo of Kloodle please book it here: https://calendly.com/kloodle/30min?back=1
Or, alternatively, contact me at neil@kloodle.com
