Studies suggest students learn best when they feel safe. A report by the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) indicates that feeling safe at school translates into higher academic achievement, increased student well-being and greater engagement. Disruptive behaviors, such as bullying and aggression, can negatively affect students’ ability to learn. Educators help by establishing an environment where students learn to value peace and interact with others in peaceful ways. World Citizen, an organization dedicated to peace education, has created over 700 “peace sites” around the world, with each site committing to five peace actions.
Educators can use the following principles to establish a peaceful learning environment after school:
- Seek peace within yourself and others. Foster mutual respect, encourage positive communication and develop conflict resolution skills.
- Reach out in service. Organize community service projects with students.
- Protect the environment. Teach students about sustainability and how it benefits the environment.
- Respect diversity. Expose students to cultures in a way that helps them appreciate the values and beliefs of others.
- Be a responsible citizen of the world. Help students understand how money, politics, music, technology and the environment affect the world.
By establishing a peaceful learning environment, educators can equip students with the tools to promote peace in their homes, schools and communities.
