Peer Mediation is a positive process in which student mediators help their peers solve problems before adults get involved.

Peer Mediation is a chance for students to sit face to face and talk, uninterrupted, so each person is heard. The students and mediators work together to find a peaceful solution.

Who is a Student Mediator? A student mediator is an 8th grader who has been trained to conduct mediations. Students are trained by district personnel to ensure they are fully prepared to do mediations. The student mediators ensure the mediation session is helpful and fair. They listen to each disputant’s side of the story and guide the disputants to a mutual resolution.

How does a Peer Mediation Work?

• Mediations take place in private, but there is always a Counselor supervising.
• Mediators work in pairs of two so there are always two peer mediators.
• First, the disputants are informed of the rules: no interrupting, no name-calling or put downs, be as honest as possible, agree to solve the problem, everything said is confidential.
• Next, mediators ask each disputant to tell their side of the story.
• Then the problem is defined, and solutions are created.
• When an agreement is reached, it is written and signed.

Why does Crestwood have a Peer Mediator Program?

1. Conflicts that do not get resolved often result in hurt feelings, which could cause friendship problems
2. Students learn to choose a peaceful, responsible way to solve their own problems
3. Students develop mutual respect and clear communication
4. It is a developmentally appropriate option students can take before turning to an adult to help solve a problem
5. Peer Mediation helps make Crestwood a more positive place to learn and grow.
6. Empowers students with the skills and strategies for dealing with conflict
7. Develops communication and decision-making tools that influence choices in the future
8. Helps students gain perspective and understanding of themselves, others, and their issues
9. Improves school climate by building relationships
10. Builds a strong sense of cooperation within the school community in order to address disputes that interfere with learning!