The dozen students took part in a program that helps sixth- through eighth-graders resolve problems before they escalate. When the students see an argument, they have been taught to find out what happened, look for common ground and help the individuals find solutions.
Not an easy task, but organizers say that students — not adults — are the ideal peacekeepers for minor conflicts.
"Resolutions are more lasting when created by the people who are in conflict, assisted by their peers, rather than when given top-down," says Tobin Krell, a youth mediation specialist who worked with the students in 10 sessions, each 45 minutes long.
The training is the result of a federally funded collaboration between Wraparound Oregon, an initiative to support mental health, and conflict mediation organization Resolutions Northwest.
It is also part of a push among Beach staff to give students more responsibility.
"We want to empower kids to take ownership of the direction their school is going," says Assistant Principal Kris Meyer. "As a new K-8 school, we're establishing now what Beach will be like for years to come. These students are the driving force and can leave behind a really positive culture."
Skills for life
Krell began the students' final training session in early February by introducing a simple conflict: two kids fighting over a ball.
He drew an iceberg. The top represented the conflict over the ball; the portion hidden beneath the water represented the students' "interests," such as freedom, belonging and fun.
"Everybody always has interests, and interests are always positive," Krell explained. "When you find these interests, it's easier to walk people through conflicts."
Students practiced their skills through a quick role play in which two students argue after a pushing match; two other students intervene to try to resolve the situation. After an awkward start, the students fell into their roles, and Krell and the other students watched and offered suggestions.
"During role plays, it's hard to know how you would feel," sixth-grader Bradford Benson explained afterward. "You have to be serious about this program to make it work."
Bradford says the skills he has learned have already been helpful at home where his brothers fight "on a daily basis."
Lifelong lessons
Students are receiving additional practice this spring by helping third- and fourth-grade students resolve arguments during recess. In the longer term, organizers hope to offer training sessions each school year taught by students themselves.
And the big picture: They want students to carry the skills beyond their K-12 education.
"This gives kids tools they will take through life. As adults, they will be able to speak up for themselves and others," says Kimmy Kenyon, a Beach teacher and program supporter.
Touching again on Beach's desire to empower students, Meyer adds: "The more opportunities we give students to make choices now, in this safe environment, the better. So when it comes to big decisions later on, they'll be better prepared."
