May 22, 2025

Long Elementary School is one of 13 Missouri schools, and 71 schools nationwide, to earn the prestigious 2025 National School of Character award. Principal Dr. Christina Phillips surprised students and staff with the announcement during an all-school assembly on May 22.

“We are incredibly proud to be named a National School of Character,” Phillips said as confetti cannons rang and students cheered. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our students, staff, and families who live out our core values of respect, responsibility, leadership, and kindness every day. At Long Elementary, character isn't just something we teach — it's who we are.”

Long Elementary School is one of 8 National Schools of Character in the Lindbergh district. In addition, Lindbergh Schools is a National District of Character.

Character.org, a national advocate and leader for character development in schools and communities, has certified 71 schools and 3 school districts as 2025 National Schools and Districts of Character. 

“We are pleased to announce and celebrate the schools and school districts that have earned this national recognition,” said Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org. “Each of these schools has put in place a comprehensive approach to help students understand, care about, and consistently practice the character strengths that will help them flourish in school, in relationships, in the workplace, and as citizens.”   

Since its inception, the National Schools of Character program has impacted over three million students, staff, parents, and community members. The schools and districts that apply must meet the rigorous standards articulated in Character.org’s 11 Principles Framework for Schools: A Guide to Cultivating a Culture of Character. Each school is assessed by a team of trained evaluators.  

“There is an ethic of care at these schools,” adds Lori Soifer, who directs the Schools of Character program. “Working together with students, parents and community members, these schools are creating stronger communities focused on character.” 

During the past 20 years, more than 1,200 schools nationwide have been recognized by Character.org as a National School of Character.