Students from Shelton School joined others around the world September 21st in observing the United Nation’s International Day of Peace.  Montessori schools worldwide banded together for a special Sing Peace Around the World Celebration, singing in unison the song Light a Candle for Peace.  Music instructor Ken Utz directed Shelton children in grades Early Childhood – 2^nd as they lifted their voices in song in the school’s atrium, with students from other grades lining the balconies of three other floors.  The event included a parade of students carrying flags from different nations.

Says Timothy J. Purnell, Executive Director of American Montessori Society (AMS), “I am reminded that we are in dire need of Dr. Maria Montessori’s wisdom in regards to peace, social justice, respect, and grace and courtesy.  We must redouble our efforts to bring peace into our classrooms, and by extension, our shared community.  Her words ring true:  Education is the best weapon for peace.”

Shelton School uses the Montessori approach extensively with its younger students and is an accredited institution for the training of Montessori teachers.  Says Dr. Joyce Pickering, Shelton’s executive director emerita and immediate past president of the American Montessori Society’s board of directors.  “We need peace today.  I’m so pleased that we continue to connect with others, from coast to coast, from time zone to time zone, on this one day.”