Leif Ericson Day School celebrates Peace Day

Peace ruled the day at the Leif Ericson Day School in Dyker Heights the morning of Wednesday, September 25. Students, dressed in baby blue t-shirts that proudly sported the peace insignia, gathered the school chapel to proclaim their dedication to the noble cause. The children began the ceremony by singing “March In The Name of God” in unison, playing instruments, and reciting verses from the Bible.

“We’ve been doing this here for 13 years,” said teacher and Admission Administrator Signa Campbell. “This is part of who they are. They do peace pledges, get ribbons and plant peace pinwheels.”

Although the day marked a special celebration for the school, as International Day of Peace was declared September 21 by the United Nations General Assembly, Campbell also explained the school makes this celebration a common practice. “We actually do this once a month,” she said. “We are building a culture here.”

After the singing concluded, Principal Christine Hauge discussed what it means to bring peace to your community and loved ones. “Why is it hard to do the right thing all the time? What does doing the right thing mean?” asked Hauge.

Children raised their hands and gave responses that are typically well beyond their years, such as being kind to others even though selfishness and temptations may sometimes get in the way. “Bring goodness out to the sidewalk. We are going to rededicate our peace oaths today,” said Hauge.

Perhaps the most touching moment during the ceremony took place when some of the children asked for peace regarding contemporary issues, such as the flood situation in Colorado, the war in Afghanistan, and the heartbreaking hardships in Kenya.

Towards the end of the event, students were called up individually with family members to rededicate their finger-printed peace poles. Parents were gleaming.

“In this school, we’re all a big family,” said Lisa Korchma, proud parent of daughter Sadie. “The kids pledge their peace. They look forward to it all year. It all ties in to their religious education. This is the biggest event in the school.”

The tribute to peace continued the entire day as teachers and class planted peace pinwheels, attended an International Feast, worship featuring two school choirs, and attended a peace ribbon ceremony.

Leif Ericson Day School was designated a “No Place for Hate” school by the Anti-Defamation League.