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Rensselaer City School District

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Character Education Program Connects Reading to Monthly Themes

Posted Date: 04/16/26 (04:37 PM)


VRES continues to build strong character and a love of reading through its monthly Character Education program, where each month features a book tied to an important life value. These meaningful themes and stories help students grow both academically and socially.

In March, students read Malala’s Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai, focusing on the theme of fairness. This selection also supported the school’s participation in the statewide One School, One Book initiative, bringing the entire school community together through a shared reading experience.

In April, classrooms are reading I Promise by LeBron James, centered on the theme of perseverance. Throughout the month, teachers, administrators, Board of Education members, students, and even therapy dogs will visit classrooms to read and engage with students.

A white bookshelf displays a variety of children's books on multiple shelves.

Month

Character Trait

Book Title & Author

October

Respect

Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun by Maria Dismondy

November

Responsibility

Brave Irene by William Steig

December

Trustworthiness

A Bike Like Sergio’s by Maribeth Boelts

January

Citizenship

I Am We: A Book of Community by Susan Verde

March

Caring/Kindness

We Dream a World by Yolanda King

March

Fairness

Malala’s Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai

April

Perseverance

I Promise by LeBron James

May

Creativity

Be a Maker by Katey Howes