All six schools in the Comsewogue School District were recently honored with Promising Practices Awards for their exemplary social-emotional learning programs. Comsewogue schools were named among just seven other institutions in New York and 224 across the country to receive the awards from national education advocacy group Character.org.

“Through intentional SEL initiatives—such as student-led service projects, restorative practices, peer mentoring and integrated classroom lessons—our school continues to prioritize the development of the whole child,” said Assistant Superintendent for Instruction Dr. Jennifer Polychronakos. “This recognition affirms our belief that academic success and character growth go hand in hand, and we are proud to be acknowledged as a model for others seeking to build strong, supportive learning environments.”

Each year, Character.org recognizes schools that implement innovative programs and initiatives to promote character development. Comsewogue’s schools earned the awards by submitting applications that highlighted the strategies they’ve implemented and the measurable impacts they have had in fostering a positive school climate, while improving student well-being and ethical decision-making.

Comsewogue’s schools were awarded for reflecting the District’s commitment to character education and aligning with Character.org’s 11 Principles Framework for Schools—a research-based guide that outlines the key elements of effective character development. These principles emphasize the importance of creating a caring community, providing students with opportunities for moral action and fostering shared leadership among students and staff.

Boyle Road Elementary School was recognized with a Promising Practices Award for building community through their school food pantry. Clinton Avenue Elementary School was honored for their commitment to social-emotional learning curricula that encourages spreading joy and kindness to others, starting with oneself.

Comsewogue High School was awarded for rethinking student discipline by implementing policies that focus on restorative justice rather than punishment. JFK Middle School was awarded for launching Mental Health Mondays, which feature mindfulness activities and kindness initiatives to improve student well-being at the start of each week. Norwood Avenue Elementary School’s application submission was titled “Scattering Kindness through Social Emotional Learning” and tasked students with carrying out random acts of compassion. Lastly, Terryville Road Elementary School was honored for introducing character education lessons during recess to teach students about inclusion, teamwork and community.

“We are extremely proud to recognize the schools and organizations that have developed and implemented a Promising Practice” said Character.org President Dr. Arthur Schwartz. “Each of these programs and practices have demonstrated significant impact and strongly align with the principles that help schools and organizations cultivate a culture of character.”