May 15, 2026 — Three Vestavia Hills schools are being recognized nationally for their commitment to character education.

Character.org, a national nonprofit that supports character education in schools, announced the Promising Practices award recipients today. Among this year's honorees are Vestavia Hills Elementary East, Vestavia Hills High School, and Vestavia Hills High School Freshman Campus.

Schools earning the Promising Practices designation have implemented a program or initiative that aligns with Character.org's 11 Principles Framework for creating and sustaining character development. Recognized practices are unique, effective, and replicable at other schools.

The Promising Practices include:

• Book Buddies and Beyond (Vestavia Hills Elementary East): Book Buddies and Beyond pairs students intentionally to build collaboration across reading, STEM, games, and academic projects — developing confidence, kindness, leadership, and a stronger sense of school community in the process.

• RISE Teams (VHHS): RISE — Rebels Impact through Service and Engagement — is a student-led initiative that unites the school community around meaningful service projects that raise awareness and funds for the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program at UAB’s O’Neal Cancer Center.

• Monday Matters (VHHS Freshman Campus): Monday Matters is a monthly, whole-school assembly held the first Monday of each month that uses speakers, games, and student voice to reinforce the school’s core values of unity, service, perseverance, and independence.

Schools receiving the Promising Practices award are often later considered for Character.org's State and National School of Character designation — an honor currently held by six Vestavia Hills schools, including all five district elementary schools and Louis Pizitz Middle School.