Why?  Schools with student conflict management programs report decreased violence, hostile activity and antisocial behavior among students.  This results in  improved social and learning environments within the school community.  Within several months of implementing a student program, there should be a decrease in the number of disciplinary referrals and actions.

            What?  This program is based on successful national models.  Third through twelfth graders are selected by classmates, teachers, counselors and administrators on the basis of leadership potential (both positive and negative) to receive in-depth training which enables them to serve as peer mediators or conflict managers for peers who are in conflict.  Students are trained in communication and cooperative problem solving skills as well as the mediation process.  They build skills in active listening, ability to express feelings, critical thinking, teamwork and anger management.

          Upon completion of training, elementary students monitor the playground in pairs to help other students resolve minor conflicts such as name-calling, rumors, game rules and teasing.  At the middle and high school levels, peer mediators are scheduled through a referral process to help their peers resolve conflicts.  Typical conflicts include boyfriend-girlfriend disputes, rumors and name calling, unreturned or damaged property, and status issues.

          The program is voluntary and students who are in conflict may accept or decline  peer mediation as they wish.  More often than not, however, students in conflict  willingly accept help from their peers.

          The conflict managers/peer mediators meet on a regular basis with the school's coordinating team to discuss problems, participate in additional skill building activities and to provide support for each other.  Experience students help train new students the following year.

          For more information, please contact Resolutions Northwest at (503) 595-4890.