The Great Oaks Legacy Charter School provides a small, safe, and structured environment for the academic and social development of students. This environment is essential for student learning.

The teaching, training, and practice of conduct expected at the Great Oaks Legacy Charter School is founded on the core values of Respect, Integrity, Self-Discipline, and Excellence (RISE). In addition, such teaching, training, and practice is driven in part by The Leader in Me Program, based on Stephen R. Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Teaching and learning the 7 Habits takes a lifetime effort.

We will start and continue this important effort at the Great Oaks Legacy Charter School by teaching the 7 Habits alongside RISE through character education classes.

THE 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE TEENS

START WITH YOU

Habit 1: BE PROACTIVE. “You’re in Charge.”
I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions. I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking.

Habit 2: BEGIN WITH THE END IN MIND. “Have a Plan”
I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision, and look for ways to be a good citizen.

Habit 3: PUT FIRST THINGS FIRST. “Work First, Then Play”
I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say “NO” to things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.

THEN WORK WELL WITH OTHERS

Habit 4: THINK WIN-WIN. “Everyone Can Win”
I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want. I make deposits in others’ Emotional Bank Accounts. When conflicts arise, I look for third alternatives.

Habit 5: SEEK FIRST TO UNDERSTAND, THEN TO BE UNDERSTOOD. “Listen Before You Talk”
I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoints. I listen to others without interrupting. I am confident in voicing my ideas. I look people in the eyes when talking.

Habit 6: SYNERGIZE. “Together is Better”
I value other people’s strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different than me. I work well in groups. I see out other people’s ideas to solve problems because I know that by teaming with others we can create better solutions than any one of us alone. I am humble.

AND REMEMBER TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Habit 7: SHARPEN THE SAW. “Balance Feels Best”
I take care of my body by eating right, exercising, and getting sleep. I spend time with family and friends. I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school. I take time to find meaningful ways to help others.