VPT Online: Public Square: Don't Hate ... Appreciate

PUBLIC SQUARE is a VPT initiative addressing issues of concern to Vermonters. Mixing documentary footage, thoughtful insight, in-depth panel discussions and more, we’ll keep you informed about local events and issues that affect your lives.

Don't Hate ... Appreciate
Live with Viewer Call-in

Mon., June 5, 8 pm

Fran Stoddard hosts this look at the hot button issues of diversity and tolerance, following up on a project recently carried out by Winooski, Vt., middle and high school students.

The program includes a documentary Stoddard produced on the subject, followed by a live, call-in discussion with a panel of experts, including:

Mary Woodruff, Principal of Winooski Middle and High School
J.W. Wiley, Director of the Center for Diversity, Pluralism and Inclusion, Plattsburgh State University
Ashley Higgins, Senior at Winooski High School
Marilyn Mora, Senior at Winooski High School

Winooski schools have a diverse student population, 18 percent of whom are English language learners. The project took place in the 2004-2005 school year. All students and staff in grades 6 through 12 explored such issues as racism, bullying and acceptance.

Viewers are encouraged to call in with questions. A toll-free number will be announced during the program.

Free Resource Materials
While there are many ways for communities to reflect on diversity and acceptance, a free resource kit to help educators shape a study that will meet specific needs is available. The kit includes:

DVD documentary about the Study of Tolerance and Acceptance project carried out by Winooski middle and high school students (30 minutes)
Manual about the projects produced by Winooski students, including writing, music and artwork
Teacher's guide with lesson plans and ideas for teaching tolerance, as well as a resource list of books and videos

For more information or to order the resource kit, contact Vermont Public Television at 800-639-3351 or learning@vpt.org.

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