Our Twin Pillars: A solid foundation for education   I Academic Excellence NCCI's academic curriculum provides students with an optimal learning environment geared to helping them develop their full academic potential. NCCI graduates are well prepared for post secondary education. Many have received scholarships with institutions such as McGill University, McMaster University and the University of Toronto.   II Clear Moral Framework We believe that school is a place where character can and should be developed. Students can achieve success in all aspects of human relations through our clear moral framework consisting of 19 moral capabilities. These capabilities harmonize with the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. For example, two of our moral capabilities include: > Thinking systematically and strategically in search for solutions. > Encouraging others and bringing happiness to their hearts. In the lower school (JK-Grade 6), the Moral Framework is taught through a cirriculum based on The Virtues Project, developed by Linda Kavelin-Popov, her husband, Dan Popov, and her brother, John Kavelin. The Virtues Project is designed to help create a culture of character through the practice of virtues. The Popovs have identified 52 virtues in their book entitled The Virtues Project Educator’s Guide, such as consideration, cooperation, forgiveness, generosity, patience and trustworthiness. Our teachers are trained in the language of the virtues, to recognize teachable moments for building character, and to encourage students to take responsibility for their own moral development. We help self-esteem grow in an environment where self-discipline, sound judgment, and personal transformation are cultivated.