Peer Mediators facilitate communication between students

Woods Elementary’s Peer Mediation program allows students to seek assistance when they are having conflicts with other students before a problem escalates. Woods Peer Mediators are trained in conflict resolution and how they can offer to help solve their issues. The program originated in the New Zealand court system and has resulted in a tremendous decrease in court appearances, said Principal Tracy Smith.

Currently, 15 fifth and sixth grade Peer Mediators meet weekly with Smith to look over the referrals made, and discuss any issues that may have come up during the mediation process.

“The nice thing about the process is that the students in conflict learn to talk to one another and really listen to what is being said by the other,” said Smith. “It allows the perpetrator and the ‘victim’ the opportunity to understand how words and actions can hurt one another. It is not a punitive action (in most situations). The best thing about it is that the students involved come up with the solution to the problem by creating a respect agreement contract between themselves.”

The Peer Mediators have a follow-up meeting with students after about a week to ensure the contract is being followed.  Referrals are available in each classroom for grades three to six for any student to obtain. “It has really made an impact on our school,” said Smith.