About the Author
Photography by Barbara L. Peterson for portfolio b.
Naomi Drew, M.A., is the award-winning author of eight books. She is recognized around the world for her work in conflict resolution, peacemaking, and anti-bullying. Her work has been instrumental in introducing the skills of peacemaking into public education and has been recognized by educational leaders throughout the world. United Nations staffer Michiko Kuroda praised her work saying, Naomi Drew has adapted the techniques of negotiation to the needs of children. She has been called a master teacher and pathfinder in our culture. Her work has been featured in magazines and newspapers, and on radio and national TV, including NBC, The New York Times, Time Magazine, and Parents Magazine. She has also served as a peaceful parenting expert for Classroom Close-up, an Emmy-winning public television show.
Naomi is a dynamic speaker who has inspired audiences far and wide. She has served as a consultant to school districts, parent groups, and civic organizations and headed up the New Jersey State Bar Foundations Conflict Resolution Advisory Panel for nine years, training K12 trainers to develop more harmonious schools. Her work is rooted in a deep desire to create a more peaceful future for all people, her own two sons being the genesis of this desire. Imprinted on her brain are Gandhis words: If we are to reach real peace in the world... we shall have to begin with children.
Acknowledgments
No book is ever written alone. This book was created and brought to life with the help and input of so many talented, caring people. My deepest, most heartfelt thanks go to:
My wonderful publisher, Free Spirit. Im deeply grateful for Free Spirits flexibility and for all the work, time, and care that went into the book, including coordinating our national survey and enabling the many unheard voices of children to be included and heard. Very special thanks go to Judy Galbraith, whose vision makes Free Spirit Publishing an exceptional house of the highest integrity. Special thanks also go to the Free Spirit editorial and creative team whose work and talents contributed to this book in so many ways: Brianna DeVore, Darsi Dreyer, Douglas Fehlen, Steven Hauge, Heidi Hogg, Michelle Lee, Marjorie Lisovskis, and Charlie Mahoney. Many thanks to my wonderful editor Alison Behnke for her keen eye and skilled hand in the revised edition of this book, and to designer Shannon Pourciau for this fresh update.
The many teachers and counselors who participated in our survey. We couldnt have done it without you!
The 2,171 kids who filled out the survey and shared their real-life stories. Your words and experiences form the core of this book.
The many schools Ive worked with, talking to teachers and kids, conducting interviews, and being in classrooms. Special thanks to Cathy Brettman for going the extra mile in setting up student interviews.
The wonderful teachers at Berkeley Elementary School who sent in pictures and stories of peacemaking in action.
Librarians Laura Gruninger of the Lawrence Library and Pat Brown of Lawrence Intermediate School who provided excellent resource recommendations.
All of my family and friends who gave so much moral support in the years of hard work that went into the development, research, and writing of this book. Thanks for being there! Special thanks to my daughter in-law, Emy Drew, for the idea of 10-Minute Time Crunchers.
The folks at City Market in Lambertville, New Jersey, for the many hours I spent writing and drinking coffee at your sunny window.
Other Great Resources from Free Spirit
Create a Culture of Kindness in Middle School
48 Character-Building Lessons to Foster Respect and Prevent Bullying
by Naomi Drew, M.A., with Christa M. Tinari, M.A .
For middle school educators.
272 pp.; paperback; 8 " x 11 "
Digital content includes customizable student handouts from the book.
The Kids Guide to Working Out Conflicts
How to Keep Cool, Stay Safe, and Get Along
by Naomi Drew, M.A.
For ages 1015.
160 pp.; paperback; illust.; 7 " x 9 "
A Leaders Guide to The Kids Guide to Working Out Conflicts
by Naomi Drew, M.A.
For grades 59.
128 pp.; paperback; 8 " x 11 "
The School Climate Solution
Creating a Culture of Excellence from the Classroom to the Staff Room
by Jonathan C. Erwin
For administrators, teachers, counselors of grades K12.
200 pp.; paperback; 8 " x 11 "
Digital content includes customizable forms from the book.
The 6Rs of Bullying Prevention
Best Proven Practices to Combat Cruelty and Build Respect
by Michele Borba, Ed.D.
For administrators, teachers, counselors, youth leaders, bullying prevention teams, parents of children in grades K8.
288 pp.; paperback; 7 " x 9 "
Digital content includes customizable forms from the book and a PDF presentation for use in professional development.
The PBIS Team Handbook
Setting Expectations and Building Positive Behavior
by Beth Baker, M.S.Ed., and Char Ryan, Ph.D.
For K12 PBIS coaches and team members, including special educators, teachers, and other school staff members.
208 pp.; paperback; 8 " x 11 "
Digital content includes PDF presentation and customizable forms.
Free downloadable PLC/Book Study Guide available at freespirit.com/PLC
Building Everyday Leadership in All Kids
An Elementary Curriculum to Promote Attitudes and Actions for Respect and Success
by Mariam G. MacGregor, M.S.
For teachers, grades K6.
176 pp.; paperback; 8 " x 11 "
Digital content includes customizable reproducible forms.
Bully Free Classroom
Elementary School Poster Set
4 posters; high gloss; 13 " x 19 "
Join the Free Spirit Advisory Board
Teachers, Administrators, Librarians, Counselors, Youth Workers, and Social Workers
Help us create the resources you need to support the kids you serve.
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