Our writers teach creative writing in Boston and around the North Shore: to middle school kids in Lynn (Lynn Arts and Lynn Classical School) and Dorchester (Josiah Quincy Upper School and The Boston Project House), to families in Gloucester (Gloucester Stage Company family days); to young playwrights in Beverly (at Harborlight Montessori School); and to retirees in Salem (at Deveroux House, the Bertram House, and Washington Square).
Under the guidance of our creative writers, students from the Harrington Middle School in Lynn co-wrote and performed this poem about the six pillars of character.
Harrington’s Six Pillars of Character
Character and Identity. The principal uses this mantra in the classrooms: “What we say, what we do, how we respond matters. It is always our choice.”
The six pillars of character are: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, character, citizenship.
Trustworthiness
Be honest • Don’t deceive, cheat, or steal • Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be loyal — stand by your family, friends, and country
Respect
Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant and accepting of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others • Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults, and disagreements
Responsibility
Do what you are supposed to do • Plan ahead • Persevere: keep on trying! • Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act — consider the consequences • Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitudes • Set a good example for others
Fairness
Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly • Treat all people fairly
Caring
Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need
Citizenship
Do your share to make your school and community better • Cooperate • Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed; vote • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority • Protect the environment • Volunteer
Our refrain:
Sarah the adventurer
might discover Character;
Sarah, Sarah, Sarah where
is Chara-Chara-Character?
Ars Creative Writing 