June 26, 2019

Seminole Middle was presented with the Promising Practices Award on June 7 at the Florida Character Education Conference. The recognition showcases innovative best practices that are having an impact across the nation and abroad.

The school's award specifically recognizes the practice of Character Circles, which allow students to apply the school’s core character traits through rich and reflective conversations.

Seminole Middle School will be invited to the National Conference on Character Education through Character.org to be recognized and share the school's work. Seminole Middle School is the only Pinellas district school to receive this distinction for the 2018-2019 school year. The school plans to pursue the state and national character education awards.

Character education plays an integral role at Seminole Middle School, where it helps the school develop a positive school-wide culture across the diverse student body. The circles are student-led with the teacher assuming the role as a facilitator. Common discussion topics for circles include solving school problems, supporting the local community, support systems for all students, academic performance and enhancing school culture.