Transcript Peer Mediation at Raymond W. Kershaw Middle School

PEER MEDIATION AT
RAYMOND W. KERSHAW
Dawn M. Reilly, Ed.S., NCSP
School Psychologist
Anti-Bullying Specialist
Peer Mediation Coordinator
MISSION STATEMENT
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The peer mediation program at Raymond W.
Kershaw Middle School serves to enable our
students to resolve conflicts peacefully, to
promote mutual understanding of individuals
and groups throughout our school, and to
enhance the climate of RWK. Conflict is a
natural part of life and our students will be
provided the opportunity to learn the skill set
necessary to be able to navigate through conflict
peacefully with assistance from their peers.
GOALS OF PEER MEDIATION
To reduce conflict.
 To share feelings.
 Develop active listening skills.
 To increase empathy for others.
 To expand problem-solving skills.
 To create a safe atmosphere where disputing
RWK students can tell their stories to reach a
mutually acceptable agreement with a trained
peer mediator.
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WHAT IS PEER MEDIATION?
Peer Mediation is a voluntary and confidential
communication process. Two students with a
problem work together through the assistance of
a peer facilitator to arrive at a mutually agreed
upon resolution.
 Peer mediation allows students in a confidential
setting to share their feelings, learn how to
problem-solve, build relationships, and through
positive, face-to-face communication, learn how
to resolve disagreements.
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WHO ARE OUR PEER MEDIATORS?
RWK Peer Mediators are 7th and 8th grade
students who have demonstrated an interest
through filling out an application form or have
been nominated by either their peer(s ) or staff
member(s).
 Selected students demonstrate a willingness to
listen emphatically, exhibit respect,
understanding and cooperation when dealing
with others, and serve as positive role models for
our school community.
 Selected Peer Mediators will participate in a daylong workshop to acquire the necessary skill set.
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TYPES OF PROBLEMS ADDRESSED
Rumor and Gossip
 Classroom or extracurricular disputes
 Misunderstandings
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**More serious problems are not appropriate for
peer mediation including: harassment, stealing,
suicide, drug use, weapon possession, etc.**
REFERRAL TO PEER MEDIATION
Referral forms can be picked up outside of the
Guidance Office at RWK.
 Referrals can be made by a student, faculty
member, parent, counselor, or administrator.
 Mediations will occur on Wednesday’s in the
Guidance Office during 5th period - Lunch/Recess
under the supervision of Mrs. Reilly.
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PROCESS OF PEER MEDIATION
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If both students agree to mediation, they will meet
with 2 trained Peer Mediators under the supervision
of Mrs. Reilly.
Each disputant tells his/her side of the story and
responds to the other student.
With the help of the Peer Mediators, both disputants
work together to reach an agreement that they feel
will resolve the issue.
Each member signs a contract, which signifies their
willingness to uphold all aspects of the agreement.
A follow-up meeting will occur the following week to
monitor progress.
If the Peer Mediation contract is violated by either of
the disputants, students are made aware that the
situation will be referred to an administrator.
STEPS IN THE MEDIATION PROCESS
Step 1
• Agree to Mediate
Step 2
• Gather Points of View
Step 3
• Focus on Interests
Step 4
• Create Win-Win Options
Step 5
• Evaluate Options
Step 6
• Create an Agreement