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International symbol of peace installed at Vernon World Languages Academy 

Peace poles are internationally recognized symbols of the hopes and dreams of humanity; they stand around the world as monuments of peace.  

There are an estimated 250,000 peace poles in every country in the world. Each peace pole bears the message, May Peace Prevail on Earth in different languages on each of its sides.    

On International Day of Peace, which took place on September 21, one of these monuments was installed at Vernon Middle School World Languages Academy.   

“Today we stand here on World Peace Day, to recognize our planting of the peace pole,” Vernon Principal Arely Tamez said. “This ceremony is a reminder for all humanity to commit to peace and rise above our differences.” 

The ceremony began with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Vernon Student Council President Lola Tamez as ASL student learners signed along. 

“Here in HCISD, we have decided to plant the peace pole, to display the special words in the languages that are currently being studied at Vernon World Languages Academy,” Principal Tamez said. “We commemorate this day together and engage in global peace by installing this peace pole.” 

During the ceremony, Vernon Language Ambassadors shared the message displayed on the peace pole in their respective language of study. Students read the message on the pole in Spanish, French, Chinese, and American Sign Language.  

“It’s very impressive what you guys are doing here at Vernon World Languages Academy,” HCISD Board Member Eladio Jaimez said. “Thank you to the students for coming out here and showing the languages you have been picking up and learning the past few years. I want to thank the Rotary Club for being here and allowing the school district to be a part of this.” 

Vernon was chosen as the ideal location for this monument as it is a World Languages Academy that offers students the opportunity to learn about different languages and cultures. This campus has also become an IB candidate school that focuses on developing inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed and encouraged to continue learning in both local and global contexts.  

“I am happy to have Vernon be the home of this peace pole,” Jaimez said. “What we offer here as a school, really kind of allows us to get to know other cultures, to get to know other languages, and to be able to get to know each other – our brothers, and sisters not just from across the country, but around the world – at a different level.  This leads to want to live in peace and harmony. Thank you to everyone who was involved in bringing this peace pole here.” 

The Peace Pole Project is a part of May Peace Prevail On Earth International, an organization with a mission to spread the universal message of peace. 

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