Imagine Columbus Primary Academy recognized as an Emerging School of Character

Jazatavia Allen serves as the Director of Character Education at Imagine Columbus Primary Academy, a K-8 school in Columbus, Ohio. The academy was recognized by Character.org as an Emerging School of Character in 2023.

In a discussion with "Mrs. A," as she is known by students and faculty, she highlighted the work of the student-run Character Council. The council's members teach the younger students lessons focused on core values. According to Mrs. A, the students involved demonstrate “leadership and commitment to something greater than themselves.”

Mrs. Allen also detailed her ongoing efforts to integrate character development within the school's academic framework, in accordance with educational principles aimed at fostering both academic and character growth. This includes encouraging teachers to use “I Can” statements for students to reflect on their personal and academic achievements.

Additionally, Mrs. Allen, together with Deshawn Pate, Dean of Students, has initiated a program to help students manage conflicts through the school’s core values like determination, integrity, and empathy.

Reflecting on her mission, Mrs. Allen shared one of her favorite expressions: “You don’t have to be extraordinary to make an extraordinary difference…all you have to do is take the first step.” This philosophy guided her outreach to Character.org, highlighting the importance of schools fostering a core values-centered environment.