At P.E.A.S.E. Academy, an alternative sobriety high school in Minneapolis, students have the option of taking a weekly human rights course.  The class discusses current events related to international issues, as well as providing an introduction to the concepts of human rights.  A local attorney volunteers to co-teach the course each week, and students are encouraged to actively participate in discussion of the issues.  In part because of the course, P.E.A.S.E. Academy students have taken initiative to help shape the school policy on harassment.  The human rights course fits well with the mission and guidelines of the school, which advocates acceptance, support, respect, and sobriety.  At the school's recent graduation ceremony, teachers commented on the virtues of members of the graduating class, citing promotion of human rights and respect for fellow students as two salient qualities.

PEASE Academy
601 SE 13^th Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55414
612-378-1377

The School:
PEASE Academy is a high school (grades 9-12) for teenagers who are at-risk or recovering from chemical addictions, school failure, or teenage pregnancy. Students in the program pledge to remain sober. Group and individual counseling supports the students' commitment to change and personal growth. Emphasis is placed on students' goals for life after high school.

Teachers: 
John Howitz - executive director (RIGHTS Sites supporting administrator)
Michael Durchslag - social studies - grades 9-12
Randy Comfort - social studies - grades 9-12
Angie Wilcox - language arts and human rights - grades 9-12

Volunteer:
Margaret Manderfeld - attorney  

Website:
www.mfas.org/pease_academy.htm