About Us

Background
The Choose Civility Initiative in Washington County was born out of a dialogue that occurred during a policy update within the public schools. A cross-functional team was developed to update the public schools’ policy to prevent bullying and harassment. Washington County Public Schools (WCPS) partners with a number of community leaders and organizations, including the Hagerstown City Police. The team recognized the need for a broader focus on civility throughout the entire community. WCPS became aware of P.M. Forni’s book, Choosing Civility, Twenty-Five Rules of Considerate Conduct, and a similar civility initiative within Howard County, Maryland. Choose Civility Washington County is modeled after Choose Civility Howard County.

Vision
Washington County chooses to be a model of civility.

Mission
We choose respect, consideration, empathy, and tolerance as our fundamental values, enhancing the community’s quality of life.

Principles of Civility

• Pay attention
• Listen
• Speak kindly
• Assume the best
• Respect others’ opinions
• Respect other people’s time and space
• Be inclusive
• Acknowledge others
• Accept and give praise
• Apologize earnestly
• Assert yourself
• Take responsibility and don’t blame others
• Accept and give constructive criticism
• Refrain from idle complaints
• Be a considerate guest