Staff and students at Trautwein Elementary School will host a special celebration Friday, Nov. 30, as a way to honor the school’s selection as a National School of Character for 2012.

Only 24 schools in the United States are receiving the award.

National Schools of Character are individual schools and districts that have demonstrated through a rigorous evaluation process that character development has had a positive impact on academics, student behavior and school climate. They are expected to serve as models for other schools, helping them to achieve the same results. They will enjoy the distinction of a National School of Character for five years.

Friday’s celebration will include performances by the Mehlville Senior High School Band and the Washington Middle School Choir. Speakers will include Superintendent Eric Knost, Trautwein Principal Donna Wagener, state Rep. Gary Fuhr and Suzie Ward, of CHARACTERplus. The presentation of the National School of Character banner will cap off the festivities.

The National School of Character ceremonies begin at 9:30 a.m.