News & Events

Cologne Academy’s “STAR Leaders” program is one of 290 character-centered Promising Practices that have been recognized in schools and organizations across the United States, and internationally, by Character.org. Cologne Academy was one of two schools in Minnesota recognized in 2026.

Cologne Academy focuses its character education on building character and addressing the social-emotional domain utilizing the Core Virtues program. Monthly schoolwide focuses include respect, responsibility, honesty, integrity, generosity, gratitude, courage, loyalty, compassion, forgiveness, and diligence.  

Character.org defines a Promising Practice as being an innovative and effective practice that inspires “goodness in action."  Regarding schools implementing Promising Practices, Character.org’s Diana Dodson, Director of Promising Practices, states that “Each of these practices demonstrates meaningful impact while bringing to life the principles that inspire ‘goodness in action’ and cultivate a culture of character in schools and organizations.”

Summarized from Character.org press release and website on May 15, 2026.

To read the full article click on the link: https://character.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026_Promising_Practice_Press_Release-1.pdf

To view the related website, click on the link: https://character.org/2026-promising-practices/