Cultivating Character: The Dexter Way Inspired by Jocko Willink
Dexter School, inspired by Jocko Willink's teachings, emphasizes the development of students' moral character through resilience, discipline, hard work, good manners, and a culture of self-determination over victimhood.
At Dexter, our mission extends beyond academic excellence. We believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also possess strong moral character. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jocko Willink, a former Navy SEAL and renowned leadership instructor, we've integrated core values into our curriculum that we believe are essential for personal and societal growth.
1. Resilience:Life is filled with challenges, both big and small. Inspired by Willink's emphasis on facing adversity head-on, we teach our students the value of resilience. We encourage them to view setbacks as opportunities for growth, understanding that it's not about how many times you fall, but how many times you get back up.
2. Discipline:Willink often says, "Discipline equals freedom." At Dexter, we couldn't agree more. By instilling a sense of discipline in our students, we're equipping them with the tools to take charge of their lives, manage their time effectively, and achieve their goals.
3. Hard Work:There's no substitute for hard work. Whether it's in the classroom, on the sports field, or in personal pursuits, we encourage our students to give their best in everything they do. This work ethic, we believe, will serve them well in all their future endeavors.
4. Good Manners:In a world that's increasingly digital and disconnected, we emphasize the importance of interpersonal skills and good manners. Respect, courtesy, and kindness are values we hold dear, ensuring our students not only excel academically but also socially.
5. A Culture of Self-Determination:At Dexter, we consciously steer away from a culture of victimhood. Instead, we promote a culture of self-determination and agency. We want our students to recognize that they have the power to shape their destinies, make choices, and be accountable for their actions.
At Dexter, character education is not an afterthought; it's at the heart of everything we do. We're committed to producing not just top-performing students, but also responsible, ethical, and compassionate citizens of the world.
