PEACEMAKERS: Music with A Message
This year's theme: "Roots and Wings - Watch us Grow"
The Peacemakers was incepted in 1997 when the then fourth grade teachers
and guidance counselor got together to discuss ways to improve academic
and social learning outcomes. They wanted to build a more cohesive
group of students. They also wanted to give each student an opportunity
to be part of something and understand that "every voice counts". The
Peacemakers (named by the students) became an inherent and valued part
of the Johnson School community.
The Peacemakers is comprised of Johnson School third and fourth grade
students. While musical in nature, the learning and collaborative
undertakings that students experience stretch far beyond song. The
students journey through a yearlong theme and learn songs and messages,
which lend to rich connections to classroom learning and self. Essential
learning around human differences, self-esteem and empowerment,
community building, patriotism, character and citizenship and social
justice permeate the Peacemaker experience. It is far more about the
process of working together and supporting one another than it is about
the shows. Our students learn at an early age that the key to personal
and group success lies in the ability to work collaboratively with
others.
The students perform in the community throughout the year at events
including an annual "Community Tour" and Veteran's Day and Martin Luther
King Day ceremonies. The experience culminates with an annual spring
performance held at Natick High School for families, fellow students and
community members to enjoy.
The Johnson School PTO has served as a supporter of our program.