2008 Conference Schedule 8:30-9:00 am - Registration 9:00 am - Welcome 9:30-10:30 - Concurrent Workshops 10:45-11:45 - Workshops Cont. 12:00-1:15 - Lunch and Special Program 1:30-2:30 - Concurrent Workshops 2:45-3:45 - Workshops Cont. 4:00-4:30 - Closing Keynote

Keynote Speaker - Jennifer DeLeon

Jennifer DeLeon, college graduate, wife, mother, anti-gang activist, recently testified before Congress on matters related to gang prevention. In the 1990's, Jennifer was a petulant young gang member, taking part in gang rituals and bullying other students. She'll talk about how she turned her life around and how hope for other young people is within sight.

In addiition to the plenary keynote by DeLeon, there will be a luncheon address by John Kelley, speaking on "The Line: how economic and societal forces can push young people over the edge into antisocial behavior"

Workshop and Presenters (see page 2)

The Need for Peace-filled Schools

Students cannot learn and teachers cannot teach effectively if they do not feel safe. According to the Texas Education Agencey (TEA) and the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission (TJPC), "tens of thousands of Texas students are referred each year for school violence."

Teachers and administrators are often frustrated with the lack of appropriate materials, lesson plans, and activities that can be incorporated within their curricula so that students can learn age-appropriate nonviolent techniques and understanding.

In 1995 the Texas Legislature, concerned about safety in school, adopted a new state policy requiring that each school create alternative education programs. While the focus of these programs has been on student disciplinary options there remains a need for comprehensive curricular approaches to the issue of violence.

Texas Educators Can Make the Difference

A primary goal of Texans for Peace is to work with educators throughout the state to make schools more peaceful and violence-free. We help educators - the ones making a difference every day in children's lives - through workshops, educational materials, and advocacy as part of our overall mission to support Texans who believe in peace and social justice.

Join with us and educators throughout Texas. (MAP AND DIRECTIONS). We'll look forward to seeing you at this important and exciting conference!