For Immediate Release

(Baltimore, MD—May 3, 2002)  The Maryland Judiciary’s Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO) will premiere a documentary film called Connections! at Baltimore’s Historic Senator Theatre (5904 York Road, Baltimore City) on Wednesday, May 8, 2002, from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m.  The one-hour documentary tracks the 1½ year evolution of Frederick High School’s “Connections! Initiative,” an intense, school-wide, program that works to break down the barriers between cliques, races and cultures, which are the root of much of the conflict among high school students. Co-hosted by the Honorable Robert M. Bell, Chief Judge of Maryland’s Court of Appeals, and Dr. Nancy Grasmick, State Superintendent of Schools, the event will include an opening reception before the screening and a discussion with students, faculty and others after the film. 

“We applaud Frederick High School for undertaking this difficult project,” Chief Judge Bell explained.  “MACRO is pleased to support this work, which takes school conflict resolution to a new level.  As you will see documented in the film, students are the primary leaders of this program, which serves as an excellent example of how young people can work together to build a school culture based on respect, community, and conflict resolution.”

The event is free and open to the public, but advanced registration is recommended.   For more information, or to reserve as seat, please call MACRO at 410-321-2398.

Media are invited to attend.  For more information, please call Rachel Wohl at 410/321-2398.