International Academy/LEAP: Peace Pole Project, spring 2008

Early this school year I had the idea to introduce a project at LEAP that would engage the entire student population and allow for discussion and authentic classroom work throughout all content areas.  The goal of the project is to declare LEAP an international peace site and teach students about their role as peacemakers in their school, community and the world.  The project began with five members of the Student Service Council.  I approached the students with my ideas and they showed great interest in developing a plan that includes authentic learning opportunities for the entire semester. 

The students, two staff members and I began brainstorming ways to get the student body interested.  Together we decided to prepare an all-school Peace Assembly where we could introduce our ideas and explain the process of becoming an international peace site.  With the help of Melvin Giles, a local peace activist, the assembly planning began. 

Students developed a Power Point presentation that included student translators and organized an assembly for February 14^th.  With the help of Ms. Strupeck, Ms. Quest and Mr. P, I outlined the necessary information, brought in a traveling peace pole, designed a word of the week activity and set-up a fundraising campaign so that LEAP could purchase a peace pole that reflects our student population.  A late spring dedication ceremony is now being planned to declare LEAP as an international peace site.

After only one week LEAP students have contributed enough money to purchase the pole.  Ordering our custom pole is the next step.  Remaining funds will be used to design a small garden and perhaps a bench for our courtyard.  My hope is that students will reflect on themselves as peacemakers and discover how they can make a big difference in the world. 

This project seemed a natural fit because LEAP is a very peaceful school.  Students from all over the world already join together to accomplish great things.

There are a variety of learning opportunities that can be developed through the common theme of peace in our building, including leadership opportunities.

Currently Student Service Council members are collecting and keeping track of project funds.  In March, I hope to work with students in order to continue the theme of peace in our school.  The project should grow and be kept fresh throughout the semester if it is to be successful.

Declaring our school an international peace site is inclusive in nature and will reflect our commitment to promoting peace in our community.