A description of tule houses used by California Indians led a class of fourth graders to discuss the social and moral expenses of our modern housing and way of life, and to recognize the value of other peoples' choices. (TD)

Perceptions of social change in American society and education were examined via an attitude survey (22 demographic questions and 73 opinion statements) administered to the entire population of 5 Northern California rural high schools (n=1,288); all English classes in 2 Sacramento schools (n=1,384); and rural adults (n=258). Structured interviews…

Profiles the Community of Caring, a character education program in California that has been in existence for 12 years. Explicates some of the qualities that mark the program as a success. These include longevity, acceptability, comprehensiveness, evaluation, academic improvement, cost-effectiveness, family/community involvement, and professional…

Addresses some of the concerns surrounding the controversy of religion and public education. Finds some common ground in the ethical issues shared by character education and citizenship education and the nondenominational moral teachings in religious education. Outlines four broad strategies for maintaining productive community discussions. (MJP)

Provides a brief historical background for the current character education movement. Identifies mandates and support for character education in California's schools and shares implications of the character education movement for California teachers. Includes a list of California's Standards for the Teaching Profession regarding character…

Reports on the work of the Child Development Project. The project outlined a series of approaches and characteristics shared by successful character development school programs. These include creating a caring community, a social constructivist approach to staff development, use of cooperative learning strategies, autonomy, belonging, and…