Character Development

The school is driven by the Aristotelian ethic, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit.” Harlem Academy students work and learn in a demanding yet supportive environment in which positive contributions are celebrated and behaviors that detract from the learning environment are not tolerated. Every Harlem Academy student learns and commits to the school creed, which defines our community pillars: integrity, initiative, compassion, and determination.

School Creed

I am bold and creative.
I take opportunities to lead.
I seek help when I need it.
I know the difference between right and wrong.
I choose to do what is right,
Even when it is hard or no one is watching.
I treat others the way I wish to be treated.
I help without expecting anything in return.
I care for my school, family, and community.
I make decisions that support my future.
I learn from my mistakes.
I don’t give up.

A weekly community meeting is an opportunity to explore aspects of the school creed, share character-building lessons, and recognize breakthroughs in personal growth. Family members and friends are always welcome to join us during this weekly tradition.

All Harlem Academy students have jobs. Everyone cleans classrooms for daily inspection, greets visitors, and organizes common areas. Middle school students also lead weekly activities as mentors for younger students. The ideals of service extend beyond our school walls with each class completing at least one annual service project in support of a community in need.

A weekly advisory period helps students develop communication and decision-making skills through team-building activities. Students consider challenging scenarios from their lives in or out of school and evaluate the merits and drawbacks of various solutions. Students write weekly reflections and conclude each trimester with self-assessment and goal setting.

Harlem Academy's attentive staff works to minimize discipline problems. However, when issues do arise, students are required to take responsibility for their behavior. Any student cited for discipline problems must write a brief reflection on his or her behavior and personal responsibility to classmates, school, and family.

At Harlem Academy, learning and character development go hand-in-hand. By cultivating attitudes that lead to long-term academic and personal growth, we put our students in a position to succeed at top secondary schools, in their communities, and in life.