MEDIATOR PROGRAM |
|
| The Sequoia High School Conflict Mediator program is a violence-reduction project that trains students to successfully solve problems without violence and without days lost from school due to suspension. Students are trained to actively listen and facilitate mediation between two of their peers. The program teaches students that there are methods other than violence to solve problems. The program was implemented in 1994 when a team of four teachers and one administrator attended a three day training presented by the Citizenship and Law Related Education Center. This team then nominated, interviewed and trained students to begin the process of mediating. Since that time there have been 30 students trained as Conflict Mediators. These students serve the school in many different ways. Because of their efforts, the school saves approximately 120 days of suspension each year. There is now a calmer, more peaceful atmosphere on the campus, where students know they can work their issues out safely and confidentially. The Conflict Mediators have reaped the benefits in their own personal lives. Having learned such skills as active listening, critical thinking and brainstorming alternatives, they utilize these tools in their own families and at their jobs. The staff has noticed an increase in students' self-confidence and an improvement in their interpersonal relationships. In addition, the Conflict Mediators have an opportunity to learn the arts of flexibility and compromise and the result is that they are better communicators. Sequoia High School has been asked to train students at the middle schools in their district, as well as in other alternative programs. |
[ Table of Contents | Exemplary Programs Page | CCEA Home ] Copyright © 1999 by the California Continuation Education Association. |
