“It is not enough to teach children how to read, write and count. Education has to cultivate mutual respect for others and the world in which we live, and help people forge more just, inclusive and peaceful societies." - UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
“ . . . Education is the best weapon for peace.” – Maria Montessori
As in years past, students at Milwaukee Montessori School are spreading the message of peace in recognition of International Day of Peace on September 21st. This year, students throughout the school, from our toddlers through Junior High, have created “Postcards for Peace,” which include a drawing, message or symbol based on what peace means to them.
Upper Elementary teacher Ms. Kearns thought of the idea to spread the message of peace via mailed postcards. On Peace Day, each MMS family will receive peace mail from another member of our MMS community. This will help students share, communicate and spread their perspective about peace.
It is only fitting that this year’s theme for International Day of Peace, as established by the United Nations, is “Education for Peace.” The United Nations will examine the role education can play in fostering global citizenship, a role Dr. Maria Montessori believed was critical in the effort to one day achieve the dream of world peace.
Even our youngest students are taught peace in the classroom, through respecting others, caring for materials in the classroom, and fostering a sense of community within our school. Ms. Kearns has enjoyed looking through all the postcards, noting, “Through these postcards, you can see peace means many different things to students at all different levels.” Children’s House students have shared that they believe peace is being quiet, sharing, and being kind. Some of our older students drew postcards with symbols of peace, drawings of equality and compassionate friendship that knows no boundaries.
It is hoped that through peace education early in childhood, our students will lead a life of harmony within the community, becoming the catalysts of a society that truly knows a world that coexists in peace.