"Two of my third-grade boys, one African-American and one white, were arguing on the playground. The white boy used ‘the n-word.' I don't think he knew what it meant - only that it was mean. I don't want to blow this out of proportion, but I don't think I should just let it slide..." A CLASSROOM OF DIFFERENCE is the heart of the Institute, developed to address diversity issues in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade school communities. The program has been successfully implemented across the United States. More than 350,000 elementary and secondary school teachers - responsible for nearly 12 million students - have participated in A CLASSROOM OF DIFFERENCE. At the center of A CLASSROOM OF DIFFERENCE is the anti-bias curriculum that provides teachers with lessons to help students: Explore prejudice and bigotry Improve critical thinking skills Examine diverse viewpoints Take leadership roles Among the programs offered under the auspices of A CLASSROOM OF DIFFERENCE are: Teacher Training - The Institute works with teachers, support staff, administrators, students, parents and other family members to create an environment of mutual respect and increased personal safety. Peer Training - Students learn how to work with their peers, distinguish between personal freedom and discriminatory behavior and develop leadership skills. Since 1991, more than 5,000 students, who influence the lives of more than 60,000 students in the United States and abroad, have been trained as Peer Trainers. The Youth and Family Service - Flexible after-school programs involving parents and families, as well as other providers, to help foster self-esteem and respect. A specially designed Youth Service Activity Guide enables youth to uncover prejudices and develop strategies to confront prejudice and bigotry Other Specialized Programs - Across the country, the Anti-Defamation League develops and implements special events and programs throughout the year - from essay and art contests to local youth leadership events -all designed to teach participants the skills necessary to succeed in our increasingly diverse nation. A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE Institute conducts seminars, workshops or lectures on a one-time only, or on a continuing basis. For more information, or to find out how your local school system can implement A CLASSROOM OF DIFFERENCE, contact your ADL Regional Office , ADL National Headquarters (212) 885-7700, or by E-mail . Return to Top