Advisor: Ms. Courtney Freeman

The Program

The Peer Mediation program enables peers to resolve disputes. Students are trained to develop and refine the necessary skills for effective communication using a process involving talking and active listening.  Students practice the following mediation techniques and skills:  communicating verbally and nonverbally, active listening, problem analysis, identifying common interests, plan development.  A peer mediator is someone who respects differences in people, is empathetic to others' feelings, can listen carefully and respectfully to others' problems, and is dedicated to helping solve conflicts.  A peer mediator does not judge guilt or innocence, place blame, take sides, give advice, or force a solution.  Trained mediators result in students who have increased problem-solving skills, self-confidence, and self-control.  They also become role models for other students.  Both mediators and disputants learn to communicate more effectively and solve problems without violence.

The Mediation Process

Participation is voluntary.   There is a referral process and a designated place for mediations to take place.  Mediations can take various amounts of time up to 45 minutes. 

The Mediation

1. Students meet in designated place. 

2.  Mediator explains they are playing a neutral role in facilitating a peaceful solution to the problem, and discuss ground rules for the mediation to continue. 

3.  Mediator asks each student to tell his/her story.  The other disputant repeats the story until it is agreed upon.  Then they change roles.  During this time the mediator helps refine the problem by listening and reflecting the content and feelings expressed by both students, verifies the stories by paraphrasing what was said, asks clarifying questions and summarizes concerns and issues. 

4.  Next, the mediator asks them to brainstorm solutions to the problem.  Then, looks for areas of agreement and presents possible solutions. 

5.  Writes down the agreed upon solution and the steps to follow. 

6.  Has both students sign the agreement.

7.  Congratulates the students and has them shake hands