Cross County Elementary Technology Academy named 2026 State School of Character

April 16, 2026 - 18:12

CHERRY VALLEY — The Cross County Elementary Technology Academy has earned the prestigious designation of a 2026 State School of Character. This award, granted by the national organization Character.org, highlights the school's exceptional dedication to fostering an ethical and positive learning environment for every student.

School officials credit the achievement to a school-wide, intentional focus on integrating character development into daily academic life and school culture. The program emphasizes core values such as respect, responsibility, and integrity, which are woven into classroom lessons, extracurricular activities, and community interactions. Staff and faculty model these principles, creating a supportive atmosphere where students are encouraged to become conscientious leaders and citizens.

This recognition marks a significant milestone, as CCETA is the first school in Arkansas to receive this particular honor for the 2026 cycle. The award validates the hard work of educators, students, and families in building a community where character education is paramount. The school now advances to be considered for Character.org’s National Schools of Character award, with those winners being announced later this year. The distinction underscores the academy's belief that teaching strong character is just as critical as teaching technology and core academics for preparing students for future success.