Orrs Elementary School was named a 2010 Georgia School of Character by the Bagwell College of Education at Kennesaw State University, tied only with another elementary school in Woodstock.

The character education program at Orrs Elementary, which was introduced five years ago as part of the school’s improvement plan, promotes good moral and ethical values that students can and should carry over to their time outside of school. It is a mutual effort of students, staff, parents and the community.

“We are trying to change the mindsets of students, one student at a time,” Orrs Elementary Principal Dexter Martin said. “We are trying to make it more than an image or a word.”

Following words with actions can include students opening the door for parents who are entering the school. It can also show in students returning money they found on the playground — instead of keeping it, Martin said.

Teaching students values such as politeness and honesty has also contributed to better discipline. Ever since the character education program started at Orrs Elementary, disciplinary referrals have decreased tremendously, Martin said.

“Our school is now striving to live and breathe character in every action. We are helping our students make character a value that is natural and expected,” said Assistant Principal Marsha Clark in a news release from the Griffin-Spalding County School System.

As a result of winning the state title, Orrs Elementary will move on to the National Schools of Character competition. And Martin likes the school’s chances.

“I certainly think we have an opportunity to achieve this. I think we are doing some things here that no other schools are doing,” he said.

Results of the national competition should be available in the second week of March, he said.