Pacific South middle, high school educators receive Medal of Honor Character Development Program training

DoDEA Pacific South District educators at Kadena Middle, Kadena High, Kubasaki High, and Ryukyu Middle schools received training in the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s Medal of Honor Character Development Program Oct. 8-10. Lester Middle School staff received the training during the 2023-24 school year.

The Medal of Honor Character Development Program is a character-based curriculum designed by teachers. The resources included help students explore the values of courage, commitment, sacrifice, patriotism, integrity, and citizenship – and how these concepts can be seen in daily life.

Christine McNeace, U.S. Army School Liaison Officer in Okinawa, coordinated with the Pacific South District to bring the training to Okinawa.

“Throughout this training, you’ll hear stories of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances and how they navigated through them,” McNeace said as she welcomed Kadena High School staff to the professional development session. “When students have a strong character set, it can help them navigate difficult situations.”

Educators received lessons with assignments and activities appropriate for middle school students. Lessons allow students to practice various skills, including writing, critical thinking, and collaboration with peers. 

“If we are able to exemplify these character qualities for our students, it will be contagious,” said Dr. James Bleecker, principal of Kadena High School. “My hope is that these resources will enrich our curriculum and positively impact our school community.”

As staff engaged in the session, they had opportunities to collaborate and engage in meaningful discussions.

“I was seated at a table with six of my colleagues who are veterans, representing the Marines, Army, and Air Force,” said Mrs. Sarah McKinney, an ELA teacher at Kadena High School. “As we discussed the Medal of Honor recipients’ stories, we were able to have rich conversations based on their experiences during their own service to our country. The knowledge and expertise my colleagues bring into the classroom daily is critical to meeting the needs of our military-connected students both in academics and social-emotional learning.”

To learn more about the Medal of Honor Character Development Program, visit https://www.cmohs.org/lessons/overview.