Don’t Laugh at Me: New Options in Character Education

During a very special reception at the Summit on the States 2000, Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary shared news of a gateway program that addresses a crisis of disrespect, ridicule, bullying, and emotional and physical violence among adolescents. A folksinger and activist with a 40-year history of organizing and advocacy on behalf of issues of social justice and progressive political change, Yarrow in a resonating call to action, sang "Don’t Laugh at Me," with moving participation from the audience. The song served to introduce Yarrow’s program of the same name that is engaging the support of legislators to secure funding for implementation of character education and socio-emotional learning programs in schools, provide training for practicing teachers, assure a manageable ratio of school counselors to students, and reset the standards for graduation of prospective teachers so that they are assured a solid background in character education.

The Don’t Laugh at Me (DLAM) curriculum and video is based on Resolving Conflict Creatively, a highly-regarded, well-tested classroom program developed by Linda Lantieri, Director of Educators for Social Responsibility. DLAM is not a substitute for existing programs, but a gateway of inspiration for all socio-emotional curricula and an important part of a movement working toward the expansion of character education in schools nationwide.

The program will be launched in 10,000 schools this year. "Great enthusiasm for DLAM has been generated among the educational associations of principals, school counselors, school administrators, PTA presidents and colleges of education," says Yarrow, "They endorse DLAM and are actively working to facilitate its dissemination, implementation and training for prospective and practicing educators."

CPA is working with DLAM to fashion an array of policy models for consideration in early 2001.

By using music as a motivator, sensitizer and organizing force, Peter Yarrow educates and entertains guests during his concert and presentation at the Summit on the States.

For more information, contact the
Don’t Laugh at Me project at 212-904-5243 or [email protected].