League of Peaceful Schools

or

How Beaver Bank Monarch Elementary Became  a Member of the League

We have a Dream!

During the spring of 1999, as part of our school improvement planning, we outlined our goal of becoming a member of the League of Peaceful Schools.  We were very impressed by the aims of the league and the strategies of its creator, Hetty VanGurp.  Our school needed a new philosophy, to get away from the one which relied too heavily on the consequences spelled out in our school Behaviour Policy.

We began school in September with a motivational talk by Paul Puma, a retired Principal.  He inspired us to have the courage to make change happen.  Respect was the theme.  If you give a little, you'll get a little, but if you give a lot you'll get a lot!  During the year professional development focused on peace education supported through the League or our school board.  Hetty shared a day with us as we gathered at the top of the Mount (St. Vincent) to aim high.  Two of our teachers demonstrated leadership by becoming Peer Mediator trainers.  Our student peer mediators have become an important part of our school life.  We reviewed peace education programs and selected the Second Step.  This program is adaptable to all grades Primary to Six.

During our first year we held our first Kids' Peace Conference.  Multiage groups of students attended workshops where in small groups they made personal contact with 'real' peacemakers and keepers from the community.  We are planning another conference for the fall of 2001.

In October 2000 we were honoured by acceptance into the League of Peaceful Schools.  We understand that we still have many things to accomplish but we have begun the journey.

This year's projects have included the development of this site as a teacher/student collaboration and the erection of a Peace Pole with community support.

We have made a special effort this year to recognize the many good deeds of our students with monthly programs such as, "Hearts of Gold", or "Manners Matter".  Each month we hold a recognition assembly where certificates are presented and students are recognized for their social and academic achievements.