Assiniboia Park Elementary School (APES) joined other schools in Weyburn as a member of the League of Peaceful Schools on Thursday, receiving congratulatory remarks from dignitaries as well as being presented with their new League of Peaceful Schools flag.

The League of Peaceful Schools consists of schools that are committed to peace and living well together, as well as reorganizing caring and creating a safe environment.

Becoming a member of the League of Peaceful Schools "is not only about creating a safe environment for the school, but also for the community," said Mayor Debra Button during her dignitary speech to the school.

Principal Vickie Betker was proud to have the school become a member of the League, detailing the several programs that have been implemented at APES that help create a peaceful, safe environment for students. These include a social interaction program, bully proofing, DARE participation, conflict managers, safety patrollers, safe arrival program, recognizing caring behaviour in the school, a peace pole on the playground and an in-school counselor.

Superintendent of Education for Southeast Cornerstone School Division, Bruce Adams, said it was "a tremendous accomplishment for the school to have the dedication and hard work required to implementing these programs."

Don Rempel, Director of Education for Cornerstone, said that APES commitment to the League "helps create the shared vision of the school division to create a caring, nurturing and safe environment."

"I feel that it is very important for students to be able to learn in a safe environment and the school worked very hard to provide this atmosphere for their students," said Tim Wiens, Chairperson for the APES School Community Council (SCC). "The SCC is also dedicated to this program and will do what we can to support it in the school."

Audrey Trombley, Chairperson for the Cornerstone Board of Education, said to students that they "don't have to be a hero to make a difference, but you do have to be brave to stand up for someone when other's aren't being nice."

"It is great to see our up and coming citizens continue to work towards peace and living well together, as this will upkeep the quality of life and the peacefulness of the community of Weyburn," said Button.

"You are our future," voiced Sgt. Dana Pretzer, of the Weyburn Police Service, recognizing the work of the students with the police services programs.

Other Weyburn schools who are all ready a member of the League of Peaceful Schools is Haig School, Souris School, St. Dominic Savio School, St. Michael Junior High School, Weyburn Junior High School and Weyburn Comp. School. To learn more about the League or to submit an application to become a member, visit their website at www.leagueofpeacefulschools.sk.ca