How We Began

Peaceable Schools and Communities has its roots in a commitment to action by teachers concerned about the rise in local and international violence and its effects on our society. In 1991, the Gulf War was being broadcast live on television, parents were worried about its influence on young children, and teachers felt inadequate about how to discuss the war.

Faculty from Lesley University responded by inviting other teachers and activists to join them in developing projects where the skills of nonviolent conflict resolution could be practiced in the context of systemic change. A vision developed of "peaceable schools" -- places where the ideals of democracy and diversity would be put into practice in the curriculum, social life, and governance of schools.

In June, 1993, our first annual Summer Institute was convened. Since then, Peaceble Schools has sponsored many initiatives, including annual Summer Institutes, the development of the nation's first M.Ed. in Conflict Resolution and Peaceable Schools (developed in partnership with Educators for Social Responsibility), Advanced Profesional Development Workshop Series, a community service learning program at Lesley University which connects college students' learning with service initiatives, and ongoing consulting work in local public and private schools interested in adopting the principles and practices of peaceable schooling.

Social Justice Academy

Our most recent initiative has been working with a team of teachers and administrators from Hyde Park High School, as well as other community organizations and non-profits to design a small school. Our proposal was successful and the Social Justice Academy will open the Fall of 2005.

Contact Peaceable Schools and Communities

phone: (617) 349-8669 or
(800) 999-1959 ext. 8669
e-mail:peace@lesley.edu