Debbie Millikan

‘Iolani School’s Peace Institute fosters the connection between students and nature, garden, food, and peace. Students from grades 4 to 6 learn about peace, kindness, and justice by growing food at the garden.  The creation of the peace garden was student led - they were the champions and advocated for the program. Every year, they dedicate the garden for peace through ceremonies and student-led presentations during chapel. Dedications reaffirm the school’s commitment that peace is a part of the school’s identity. Students learn how to use and take care of the garden, giving them a sense of ownership and responsibility. Teachers and counselors understand that they can use this space during stressful times to decompress and reflect, particularly during crisis events (bullying, community violence). The peace garden is a space of calm, where people can heal, do yoga, read, practice intentional breathing, mindfulness, and sit together with friends (buddy benches), and talk to kūpuna.