In this episode, you'll learn from Dr. Alicia Hunsberger, the current principal of Pizitz Middle School in Vestavia Hills City Schools in Alabama, as we discuss Principle 5 of the 11 Principles Framework from Character.org. We will be talking about service learning and putting core values into action. Dr. Hunsberger is passionate about working to raise the next generation of kind and smart kids. Alicia has worked in education for over 20 years - partnering with teachers to learn, lead, and serve students and families. She was named the principal of Pizitz Middle School in 2021, and previously served as principal of 2020 National School of Character, Cahaba Heights Elementary.

In this episode you'll learn:

-How Alicia got into character education

-How the 11 Principles Framework from Character.org has helped Alicia lead and assess a culture of character

-The difference between community service and service learning

-Examples of how students at Cahaba Heights Elementary put their core values into action

-Alicia's missteps in applying the core values at her school and how she overcame them

-Advice that Alicia would give to leaders who are wanting to grow service learning at their schools

Resources from the episode:

Character Matters by Dr. Thomas Lickona - Alicia's recommendation for a good starting point for faculty

How to Raise Kind Kids by Dr. Thomas Lickona - Book for parent book study at Cahaba Heights Elementary

Samford University - https://www.samford.edu/education/

11 Principles Framework by Character.org - https://character.org/11-principles-overview/

Connect with us!

On Twitter:

Jennifer Hogan - @jennifer_hogan

Alicia Hunsberger - @hunsbergera

Communities of Character - @Samford_CCC

Pizitz Middle School - @pizitzmiddle

You can email Alicia from the school's website: https://www.vestavia.k12.al.us/domain/286