Peer mediation is a program that is available to students and staff to help resolve disagreements and conflicts. It is a form of conflict resolution that is led and facilitated by a neutral third party, with the goal being for those who are experiencing the conflict to find a mutually satisfying solution. It offers an opportunity to sit down in a more calm and relaxed setting and work through a problem.
At the SCORE Peer Mediation Program, a part of the Middlesex Community College Law Center, students and staff at Lowell High School and the Sullivan Middle School are able to take advantage of mediation resources. Anyone can refer a problem for mediation: a student can refer another student, or themselves; a teacher or staff member can also refer a conflict to be resolved. The program is staffed by student mediators, who work under the supervision of the program’s coordinator, a trained professional mediator. In order to become a peer mediator, students receive extensive training.
Once a referral is made, the adult mediation coordinator meets with each student individually to get more information about the incident and explain the details of mediation. If all parties agree, they will be brought together in mediation with peer mediators and have the chance to say what is on their minds and decide how to resolve their problem. Everything said in mediation is kept confidential, except when safety is a concern. Mediation is voluntary, so if one party refuses to attend peer mediation then the mediation doesn’t take place.
The following additional resources can be helpful with peer mediation issues:
If you are looking for help with general mediation, the MCC Law Center might be able to help. The MCC Law Center Mediation Program works in cooperation with the Massachusetts Office of Public Collaboration to provide free community mediation services and help resolve issues. Contact us for more information.
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