The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

When Ann and Lynn Wilke looked out their upstairs windows this morning they saw children placing pinwheels at the entrance to Peru Central School.  They couldn’t help but wonder what the pinwheels signified. According to school officials the Middle School students were celebrating the International Day of Peace. It was established by a United Nations resolution in 1981 to coincide with the opening of the General Assembly. The first Peace Day was celebrated in September 1982.

Adele Douglas Photo

Middle School art teacher Tracey Laundry coordinates the Peace Day Program at Peru Central. She explained, “We introduced it into the school four years ago. The pinwheels are a non-political art project that emphasizes the International Day of Peace. Unfortunately, Peace Day goes unrecognized by many people.” Laundry develops lesson plans emphasizing the day. She said peace begins in the classroom and that lessons on bullying are one of the appropriate activities for the day.

Adele Douglas Photo

Interim School Superintendent A. Paul Scott said he watched the pinwheels rotating in the wind outside his office window.  He remarked, “They’re a sign of movement and hope for progress in finding peace. They spotlight the efforts of so many people who are working for peace in the world.”