Twenty-two rising sixth graders, representing all seven of the elementary schools, participated in the Botetourt County Youth with Character Academy on July 16-18.
The three-day event, sponsored by the Botetourt County Character Counts! Leadership Council, is held annually and provides opportunities for the attendees to further develop good character traits which will help them be successful as they enter middle school. The attendees participated in team-building activities at Camp Bethel on the first day of the academy.
The second day of the academy featured activities that focused on the six pillars of character: responsibility, respect, fairness, trustworthiness, citizenship, and caring. On the third day, the attendees took Character Counts! into the community by volunteering at the Botetourt Food Pantry, participating in a mock trial with Judge Robert Hagan, and playing Bingo with the residents at the Brian Center. Between the last day of the academy and October, the attendees will put Character Counts! into action by completing a community service project.
The Botetourt County Character Counts! Leadership Council thanks the following sponsors whose monetary support made this year’s academy possible: Botetourt Education Foundation, Botetourt Parks and Recreation, Daleville-Fincastle Lions Club, First Bank, and Lawrence Transportation. Additional supporters included: Botetourt County Public Schools, Botetourt Food Pantry, Botetourt Women’s Farm Bureau, Brian Center, Camp Bethel, Fincastle Baptist Church, Judge Robert Hagan, Tammy Riggs, and Three Retired Ladies.
For additional information regarding the Botetourt County Youth with Character Academy, contact Wanda Martin at wamartin@bcps.k12.va.us.
~ Submitted by Wanda Martin
