Will “Practice Peace” rest in peace?

There are many rumors drifting through the halls of Bradford High School.  One is that Bradford’s beloved motto “Practice Peace” is no longer in use. Well that is precisely why this article was created—to confront the rumors and get the facts. 

Why is “Practice Peace” never said on the announcements anymore?  Is it true that “Practice Peace” has left the halls of Bradford and will never be heard of again?  Will principal Dr. Sue Savaglio-Jarvis replace this motto with another?  These are the questions Bradford students may be pondering.  Luckily, this article will give them the answers. 

Many students are concerned over the possible change of mottos.  Sarah Ceschin, a Bradford senior, has heard the rumor but is unsure whether to believe it.  She has reason to believe because “it’s not said on the announcements anymore.  Freshmen didn’t get [‘Practice Peace’] t-shirts this year either.”  Actually, the freshmen did receive t-shirts, but they aren’t popularly worn.  Sarah says that “[the motto] might change, but I don’t think it should.  ‘Practice Peace’ has been a part of Bradford for many years.” 

She hopes that the phrase “Success is our Only Option” will be combined with “Practice Peace” in order to satisfy everyone.  Sarah concludes by saying that changing the school motto is like “changing what Bradford is all about.  It will change the atmosphere.”  Sarah hopes that “Practice Peace” will still live on in Bradford’s halls.

Dr. Sue Savaglio-Jarvis says, “We have not changed the school motto.”   Instead, she is using both mottos to create one, much like Sarah’s suggestion.  Dr. Savaglio-Jarvis shares, “These mottos have internal meaning to each leader carrying the charge of leading a school.  As far as the ‘Practice Peace’ motto, I believe it is really more about RESPECT… if we all truly step back and think about our actions…in every situation, then we should have a peaceful learning environment where everyone feels valued.” 

She also has a few thoughts on the “Success is our Only Option” motto.  “I have a very strong, strong passion for student learning and everyone being successful.”  She feels school is “A PLACE FOR LEARNING…we need to instill that success is the only option.” 

The combination of both mottos is probably the best solution for the school.  “Practice Peace” will not be leaving Bradford, though it may be modified a bit.  It is clear that this motto goes far beyond the two words that compose it.  “Practice Peace” will always be a part of this school.  Now, it will be blended with another phrase to create a motto that will hopefully be better than any before it.

 

by Steven Carlson