Lincoln Elementary School
The House that Character Built: Developing Community with Heart and Service
Talladega County Schools
Principal: Mrs. Anna Jones
Superintendent: Dr. Suzanne Lacey
At Lincoln Elementary, community was strengthened through The House that Character Built. Serving 867 students in grades PK through 5, Lincoln Elementary revitalized its House System under the theme “8 Houses United as One.” Every student and staff member was assigned to one of eight vertically aligned Houses, intentionally building belonging and connection across grade levels. The program unified student leadership, Peer Helpers, counseling instruction, restorative practices, and schoolwide service within one cohesive framework. Service learning brought the vision to life. Forty-two fourth and fifth graders served as trained Peer Helpers, modeling empathy, conflict resolution, and positive leadership. House teams led service projects that supported local and regional communities. More than 95 percent of students participated in at least one schoolwide effort, including donating over 200 bags of diapers, 1,000 boxes of cereal, 500 loaves of bread for hurricane relief, and supplies for a local animal shelter. Behavior data showed a 27 percent reduction in repeat discipline referrals among students involved in leadership and restorative supports. Student surveys reflected increased belonging and stronger peer connections. Through intentional structures, shared service, and meaningful student voice, Lincoln Elementary strengthened character, leadership, and community. The House that Character Built ensured that every student belonged, every voice mattered, and every House moved forward together.
