Peer Mediation is a voluntary process during which student mediators assist other students to resolve conflict and disputes. It allows schools to commit to a conflict prevention model that empowers student mediators to assist their peers in resolving conflicts.
Students learn the principles and process of mediation to address low-level interpersonal conflicts at school. Staff are trained to serve as program coordinators and supported by The Resolution Center to manage the program.
Expectations for the Peer Mediation Program
Participants: Schools commit to supporting a diverse mix of students across academic, socio-economic, racial, gender and other identities, interests, experiences and skills.
Staffing: School identifies 1-3 coordinators on staff (teachers, counselors, administrators) who will support student peer mediators.
Peer Mediation Programs may include one or more of these components:
Peer Mediation Training
What it is: Our program focuses on prevention and intervention and is tailored to each school. Peer Mediation training prepares students in local, middle and high schools to mediate conflicts among their peers. These students learn real world skills such as active listening, communicating feelings, building trust and brainstorming. They become effective mediators because they understand their peers. Peer mediation reduces school violence and improves the learning environment.
How it works: The 16-18 hour training includes conflict theory, the stages of mediation and role playing. Schools that develop a Peer Mediation Program can become members of the Peer Mediation Collaborative of the North Shore.
Who benefits: Students, faculty and staff.
How long it takes: 16-18 hours.
Peer Mediation Advanced Training
What it is:The advanced training session is a way for student mediators to gain additional mediation skills and practice.
How it works: The training includes presentations, discussions, role playing, skills-building exercises and yearlong support.
Who benefits: Trained student mediators, school staff coordinators.
How long it takes: 6-10 hours.
Peer Mediation Training and Support
What it is: As year-long partnership with The Resolution Center staff and volunteer mediators that facilitates Restorative Practices Dialogues.
How it works: The program includes designing and implementing conflict resolution and mediation strategy workshops for the entire school community, providing professional mediation services, as needed, from The Resolution Center mediators and booster sessions throughout the school year.
Who benefits: Trained student mediators, school staff coordinators.
How long it takes: 2-8 hours/month.
Peer Mediators Annual Forum
What it is: Every year, The Resolution Center’s brings together student mediators who are leading in their schools as peer mediator at a yearly Peer Mediator’s Forum that is open to all North Shore peer Mediators. Read more about past forums on this page.
How it works: Students and coordinators are invited to participate in a program of learning, networking and celebration for student leaders across our region.
Who benefits: Trained student mediators, school staff coordinators.
How long it takes: Half-day, once a year.
If you are interested or would like to know more about our pricing for any of these programs, please contact The Resolution Center.
