New York Academy is explicit and intentional at supporting the growth of our students’ virtues of good character; and, we have placed three virtues at the top:
RESPECT
We show respect by speaking and acting with courtesy. We treat others with dignity and honor the rules of our family, school, and nation. Respect yourself, and others will respect you.
HONESTY
Honesty is being truthful and sincere. It is important because it builds trust. When people are honest, they can be relied on to not lie, cheat or steal. Being honest means that you accept yourself as you are. When you are open and trustworthy, others can believe in you.
SELF-DISCIPLINE
Self-discipline means self-control. It is being who you really are and doing what you really want to do, rather than being tossed around by your feelings like a leaf in the wind. You act, instead of reacting. You get things done in an orderly and efficient way. You are self-directed. With self-discipline, you take charge of yourself.
Across the school year, NYA exercises and demonstrates virtues of good character.
Additional virtues of character to be added across the school year are as follows:
| Assertiveness | Gentleness | Peace |
| Caring | Grace | Peacefulness |
| Cleanliness | Helpfulness | Prayerfulness |
| Compassion | Honesty | Purposefulness |
| Confidence | Honor | Reliability |
| Consideration | Humility | Respect |
| Courage | Idealism | Responsibility |
| Courtesy | Joyfulness | Reverence |
| Creativity | Justice | Self-Discipline |
| Detachment | Kindness | Service |
| Determination | Love | Steadfastness |
| Enthusiasm | Loyalty | Tack |
| Excellence | Mercy | Thankfulness |
| Faithfulness | Moderation | Tolerance |
| Flexibility | Modesty | Trust |
| Forgiveness | Obedience | Trustworthiness |
| Friendliness | Orderliness | Truthfulness |
| Generosity | Patience | Unity |
Definitions by the Virtues Project, Linda Popov
Please see the following link – http://www.virtuesproject.org – and to “The Virtues” tab, then “Definitions”.