Spencer-Van Etten Central School District will launch a Peer Mediation Program this fall for students in both the middle and high schools. The program, supported by a New York State Education Department (NYSED) grant, aims to promote communication, empathy and conflict resolution among students.
Spencer-Van Etten is one of 13 districts across New York selected to receive funding for peer mediation. The initiative is also supported in partnership with the Community Dispute Resolution Center (CDRC) and the New York State Unified Court System.
Twenty-five students in grades 6–12 will be selected for training. Middle school peer mediators will serve their peers in grades 6–8, while students in grades 9–12 will support both schools. Students accepted into the program will complete a 15-hour training and attend four workshops during the school year.
High School Assistant Principal Beth Ruocco, who has been in contact with CDRC about the program since joining the district, said "she expects the training to complement the district’s upcoming cell phone policy. She believes the combination of peer mediation and limited cell phone use will encourage more in-person interactions and help students develop lifelong communication skills."
Applications for the Peer Mediation Program are open through August 27. The district expects to begin program activities by November.
For students interested in applying, a form is available [click here]. The application is open to both middle and high school students.