Community Partners

City of Gaithersburg
Papa Johns Pizza
Gaithersburg Kiwanis
Gaithersburg Rotary Club
M.V. Rotary Club
G/G Jaycees
Forest Oak Lions Club
Lake Forest Mall

Does Character Count?
It does at our school! Forest Oak Middle School focuses on the recognition and celebration of those students who demonstrate the six pillars of character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. The program is several years old and building a solid foundation to assure success with several initiatives in place.

Throughout the school year, a different pillar of character is recognized for a particular month. The selected students are presented with a certificate on the school's morning television program. The school also displays their pictures in the main hall showcase. The biggest highlight for the selected students is a trip to the Gaithersburg Youth Center where they are treated to an afternoon of pizza, games and fun.

The celebrations also bring together positive adult role models who share their message of support for Character Counts. Guest speakers have included: Mayor Sidney Katz from the city of Gaithersburg, Ms. Camille Lewis, the former Miss Maryland and Steve Bedford, the Community Superintendent from MCPS, as well as others. We have also developed a partnership with Gaithersburg highshool that enables highschool students to serve as positive role models. Key Club members from the highschool have to come to the monthly celebrations to recognize and support our students.

Forest Oak Middle School firmly believes that true success is measured by each student's committment to the six pillars of Character Counts!

Excerpts From FOMS Students on Character Counts:

"As I began looking for summer jobs. I discovered that the things people tell me, like character counts are important. I have to use respect in the real world. I also discovered that character really does count."

"The character trip really motivates students to do their best. This program made me proud to be me."

"Being Nominated for the award made me have more respect for myself. It also made me feel like I achieved soemthing special. I am glad we had a chance to celebrate with other students who also made great achievements"

If you would like more information about our program contact:

Candace Ross
Assistant Principal