Create a monumental project dedicated to implementing the Peace Curriculum of Dr. Maria Montessori, whose vision and goal centered on the reconstruction of society and the establishment of world peace through education. Specific curriculum and school-wide activities teach children about basic positive character traits and peaceful behavior.

This year's theme, "Pay it Forward," challenged the partnership to "make a difference." To create tangible improvements in the school environment, the following tactics were pursued:

• Creation of a Peace Garden;
• Individual mentoring by O.R. Colan Associates' employees to improve students' educational and social experiences;
• Donation of funds by O.R. Colan Associates and the local Parent Teacher Association (PTA) to help needy families;
• Student leadership training provided by O.R. Colan Associates;
• Activities that address proper dining room etiquette, grace and courtesy, and;
• Activities that address how to recognize and prevent bullying behaviors.
  

The partnership impacted student achievement and school improvement by decreasing inappropriate behavior such as bullying, and increasing students' understanding of positive character traits.

• A 36 percent decrease in administrative discipline and guidance referrals is traceable to the project's goals.
• Per a January 2007 needs assessment, 95 percent of stakeholders surveyed believed that VSY had done "a good job" of teaching positive character traits; a 25 percent improvement from the previous year.

The partnership created a permanent place of quiet reflection and meditation within the school.

• O.R. Colan donated $10,000 for a peace meditation labyrinth, an area used for meditation and ceremony, as well as a peace pole that carries the message of peace in 16 different languages.
• A peace rally and dedication ceremony, which included peace-themed materials, poems, speeches, and singing, was held with the entire school community.
• Books related to peace were donated to the Media Center.