peaceable schools and communities

Vision, Mission, and Values

Vision

Peaceable Schools and Communities envisions a global community free from violence, disconnection, and systemic inequity where inclusive, empowered learning is rooted in the values of affirmation, consensus building, excellence, and equity is a reality for all members. As a result of the Center's efforts, educators, young people and other community members will have the tools, knowledge and relationships to live out and generate welcoming, dynamic and interconnected communities.

Mission

Peaceable Schools and Communities fosters and supports community and educational leadership rooted in the values of equity and social justice through professional development, consultation, research, and publication. We realize this mission by integrating personal, professional, and political change through a holistic model that starts with the self, focuses on the roots of justice, uses collaborative strategies and supports a model of leadership that is democratic and transformational.

We Believe that Peaceable Schools and Communities are Build on the Following Values

• Systemic transformation requires working on multiple levels: the individual, interpersonal,  institutional, the personal, professional and political.
• Diversity is a resources, not a problem. Multiple lenses and multiple voices are necessary to build just communities and effective programs.
• Change happens from the inside out. One must always start with oneself when looking to affect change.
• Reciprocity, collaboration, and shared power are important components in all learning and helping relationships.
• All people, youth, and adult, have the capacity to be leaders. New leaders and inclusive leadership must be supported.
• It is important to go beyond individualistic solutions in order to create communities that work for all members. Holistic and collective analysis and strategies are more effective.
• Conflict is an opportunity for growth and transformation. Effective strategies for dealing with conflict should be rooted in principles of respect and non-violence.
• Building an intentional community in which all voices are heard is the underpinning for all learning in a peaceable setting.
• Creating and sustaining peaceable schools and communities is an on-going work and a lived process.