Sayen Elementary School has been awarded a 2025 New Jersey School of Character award by Character.org.
Character.org has awarded 98 distinguished recipients for 2025; 22 awarded in New Jersey. This is the first New Jersey School of Character Award for Sayen Elementary School, one of 23 schools in the Hamilton Township School District.
“Sayen Elementary is very proud to receive this recognition. We believe in nurturing not only academic excellence but the core values of respect, honesty, and kindness. This recognition is a testament to the daily efforts of the students, staff, and families as we foster a positive, inclusive environment,” said Diane Vasil, Sayen Elementary School principal, in a media release.
“We are sincerely honored to receive the Character Education Award at Sayen Elementary School! This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of our amazing students and staff. Our school creates an environment where kindness and integrity flourish!,” said Wendy Balent, Sayen teacher.
“Congratulations to Sayen Elementary School for receiving the New Jersey State School of Character award. This award represents the hard work and focus of the staff on the core character education values. It also represents our students’ efforts to uphold those values,” said Scott Rocco, Superintendent of Schools.
“We are excited to announce today the 2025 State Schools and Districts of Character,” said Dr. Arthur Schwartz, Character.org’s president. “Each of these schools and districts have put into place an initiative that equips and empowers their staff to reinforce and model a range of positive core values that will shape and form the hearts, minds, and choices of their students.”
The 2025 National Schools of Character will be honored at the 32nd Anniversary International Forum next fall in Washington.
Character.org was founded in 1993 as the Character Education Partnership. The organization’s vision is to be the global leader and voice for developing character in families, schools, and organizations.
Students Reading
Sayen Elementary School students playing RISK board game: Marley Chan, Samuel Klesney, Violet Ablahani, Charles Whalen and Michael Gresko. Nolan Fiabane is kneeling in the back.,
