Peer Mediators

The Peer Mediation Program is an important aspect of the character education program at Hilldale Middle School, and has been used in our school since 2003.  We strive to have a peaceful environment where students can learn and socialize with each other. However, at times conflicts between students need intervention. One of the interventions we use is Peer Mediation.

Peer Mediators learn about different kinds of conflict, how to deal with them effectively and learn problem-solving skills, and are closely supervised by the counselor who assigns the mediators. This program has been set up so that two peer mediators sit down with two students having a dispute and help them solve their conflict and lead the mediation. The disputants will sit face to face and talk until each side of the dispute is heard. After the problem has been determined, solutions are developed and evaluated. When an agreement is reached, it is put on an agreement form and signed by all parties. If an agreement is not reached, the students are referred to the principal or counselor.

It is important to understand that conflict is a normal part of growing up that occurs throughout the life span. The important thing about conflict is how to handle it in a peaceful way that benefits both sides of the conflict.

The Peer Mediation program empowers young people to handle conflict in a positive and constructive manner and also 1) decreases violence and fighting; 2) reduces bullying; 3) decreases the number of suspensions; 5) increases empathy and self-control; 6) increases self-esteem and self-respect among peer mediators and the student body.