San Leandro High Wins National Award For Promoting Non-Violence

After getting a black eye at the start of the school year for having , San Leandro High has something to brag about.

The school has won a national award from the Character Education Partnership for its innovative classes and clubs that emphasize non-violence and peace.

The award recognizes the school for its involvement in the "Season of Service, Period of Peace," a 10-week stretch during the 2011 academic year from Martin Luther King Day in January until Cesar Chavez Day in March.

The award honors 12 student groups and 750 students who participated in activities designed to promote peace among students at school and in the community.

"The commitment our students make to nonviolence and service learning is prominent during this time," said San Leandro High Principal Linda Granger. "I am amazed at the work they do to promote peace, acceptance and service." 

Student have performed a variety of activities. For instance, the San Leandro Academy for Multi-Media has done a Fast for Non-Violence.

Other student projects have included poetry readings, a peace march and awareness campaigns on issues ranging from bullying to domestic violence.

Graphics Arts classes make promotional posters for these events.

The Season of Service, Period of Peace springs from a School Community Violence Prevention grant won by the Alameda County Office of Education in coordination with San Leandro High School in 2007. 

Over the past four years, the program has grown from 24 students in its first year to a school-wide endeavor involving between 500-750 students a year. 

"This is an absolute testimony of the depth with which our students are able to address real issues facing our youth and our world today," said Cindy Cathey, Superintendent of San Leandro Unified School District.

To recognize its success, San Leandro High has been awarded a certificate and a banner that will be displayed on campus.

Organizers have already begun planning activities for the 2012 Season of Service and hope to make it even more of a community affair. And school officials say the program is working.

"Despite several disturbing events this school year, violence on the San Leandro High School campus over the past four years has steadily diminished," said Evan Goldberg, Alameda County Office of Education grant manager.