Elementary School Celebrates the International Day of Peace

by Steve Small

Undermountain Elementary School in Sheffield, MA recognized September 21, 2005 as an international day of peace. Staff and students observed this special day in many meaningful, educational ways.

I informed the administration and teachers of the existence of The International Day of Peace and suggested that a school celebration of such a day would be a powerful learning experience for us all. I explained that, in a non-partisan, apolitical context, this celebration would be our community's contribution to supporting the vitally important notion of peace in the world and in our own lives.

Throughout the month of September students were made aware of this U.N. sanctioned day and its potential meaning for all nations and people throughout the world. Many classroom teachers personalized the experience for their students by broadening the meaning of peace. The children learned that peace begins within themselves - their thoughts, feelings, and actions have profound effects on other people in their learning and living community. They learned that family peace begins at home in a loving, supportive family environment. Peace fans out from these sources and ultimately impacts neighborhoods, cities, states, and nations.

Teachers and children created many projects that symbolized these notions of peace. Our lobby is dotted with hundreds of peace doves. A kindergarten classroom created a peace tree. A peace symbol was added to the tree each time a student demonstrated some act of peace, love, or generosity. Fifth grade teachers hung hundreds of peace cranes throughout their wing in the school.

Hundreds of Peace Doves greeted visitors in the lobby.

On September 21, the eight-minute promotional video "Peace One Day" was shown on every monitor in every classroom throughout the school. Children first moved and sang along with Jimmy Cliff's music video "Peace One Day." This was followed by a full moment of silent reflection and our wish for peace throughout the world. Many teachers read picture books and stories related to peace. Many sixth graders wrote reflections about the morning activities and what peace means to them.

This day had a very meaningful effect on so many of us. It brought us closer to an understanding that the world would be so much safer, happier, and more beautiful if we would all live in it more peacefully.

Peace Writings from Undermountain Sixth Graders, September 2005

"Peace," By Gabriella

You can ask anyone what their favorite day of the year is and get a bucket full of answers. Some people may say it's Christmas, and some might reply Easter. Yet, a few may tell you that their favorite time of the year is their birthday, and perhaps you would hear a couple of Halloweens too. But if you asked me that simple question, I would give you a completely different answer and that's because my favorite day is the twenty-first of September, International Day of Peace.

On September 21st each year, something special happens. Soldiers all over the world put down their weapons and take a day of rest. Many men and women take the time to meditate, say a little prayer or think some peaceful thoughts. Any many people stop whatever they're doing at noon on that day and participate in a moment of silence that a lot of others will observe too. These are a few examples of peaceful acts, and I'm now going to explain to you what I think peace is.

I believe that peace starts with an open mind. Peace is selfless love, and respect for every race and creed. There is no hatred in peace, and whenever you do something with kindness, you are bringing our world a step closer to lasting peace. Peace is found in forgiveness, not revenge, and is more priceless than the world itself. I almost refer to peace as another dimension. Peace is humbleness, not pride, and only doing things for the good of others. And that is what the word peace means to me.

"Peace," By John

Peace can be anywhere; it can be in the large city or a small country town. Peace is when you forget all differences and shake hands. Peace is when the big brother helps his little sister up the stairs. Peace is being selfless giving to people in need. Peace is not arguing, but compromising so both sides get what they need. Peace is giving someone the right of way. Peace is holding hands with another looking past their race. Peace can be anywhere but it is mostly in your heart.

"Peace," By Ethan

Peace is not in one person. It is in everyone. It is not only in the United States, it is in the whole wide world. It is not just wars that corrupt peace; it is also the harsh words that bullies speak. To make peace there must be love. Love is what you say to your parents when they come home from a long day at work. It is when you say those forgiving words to your sister after you have been in a fight. Love is when a young couple says "I do" at their wedding. If you have love you can have peace. And there is always love deep down. Even if you must dig forever you will find it, and even if it is small, it is there, and it is love. Peace is when two leaders shake hands after a war. It is when those leaders sign a treaty to never fight again; it is when the poor people get food, water, shelter, and some extra money from the rich. It is when gangs cease in the cities, and all the hands in the world are dropping weapons so we can all join hands in peace. Peace is so many things I could never write them all down, but I am sure one day, I will write: Today, all the countries of the World have made peace forever.

"Peace or War. It's Up to You," By Nina

If you say "What can I do
If I'm peaceful, how can I change the world?"
But it's up to you.
It's in your control

If everyone says, "How could I make a difference?"
And continues to fight
All peace would be broken
And the world just might
Break into war
Leave the homeless to die
Let racism return
And we'll all wonder why
We couldn't join together
And each lend a hand
Because if the world goes into war
We'll all die in the end

If we all stand together
And lay down our guns
If we all work together
Peace can be won.
If brothers and sisters
And cops and crooks
Put an end to their quarrels
And just take a look
If we stopped all our fighting
And donated to the poor
If we all get along
There will be no more war
If we all help each other
And let the war cease
The world will be happy
The world will achieve peace.