Imagine yourself in a classroom or on the playground when an argument between two students break out. Would you know what to do? Would the students and their peers watch or help? With the Caring Cruisers Mediation Program students at Dunloe Elementary School, 5th grade students are trained to talk with the student body involving various situations like friendship problems, not getting along, arguments, not sharing, conflict resolution and minor situations in which they can handle. If students do not agree to get along after talking with a Caring Cruiser, the counselor will then intervene to resolve the problem.
The selected mentors underwent an application and interview process in which they were chosen to lead the program. Students then received communication and conflict-resolution training in a 5 hour intense practice and implementation session. The mentors are expected to act as school leaders, uphold excellent grades and follow the school rules.
Mediation forms are available on the bulletin board outside the fourth grade classrooms. Students may take a form, fill out, and return it in the in-take folder on the board. The Caring Cruisers will mediate with students during their lunch recess time.