High School Board approves partnership with Kids Managing Conflict for student mediation training

The BHUSD Regular Board of Education Meeting held on April 15, 2025, focused on several key agenda items, with a significant discussion surrounding the approval of a contract with KMC Kids Managing Conflict. The meeting aimed to address the need for enhanced conflict resolution and social-emotional learning strategies within the district.

The discussion began with board members seeking clarification on the rationale for the proposed agreement. Assistant Principal Decaturale explained that the initiative aims to create a comprehensive approach to intervention support and social-emotional learning. The program, developed in collaboration with Pepperdine School of Law and the Western Justice Center, is designed to provide professional development for both students and staff in mediation techniques.

Decaturale emphasized the importance of equipping students with the skills to manage conflicts constructively, especially in a time marked by societal tensions. She noted that the program would not only teach mediation skills but also foster values such as empathy and respect for diverse perspectives. The curriculum aims to empower students to navigate conflicts without resorting to physical altercations or damaging friendships.

Board members expressed support for the initiative, highlighting its potential benefits for students' personal development and the overall school environment. The program is intended to be flexible, potentially integrated into existing classes or offered as a standalone elective. The board discussed the importance of training both teachers and students, ensuring that the skills learned would be applicable in real-world situations.

The board also acknowledged the historical context of conflict resolution programs in the district, recalling previous successful initiatives at the elementary level. Members expressed a desire to expand such programs to younger students in the future.

After thorough discussion, the board voted to approve the agreement with KMC Kids Managing Conflict, marking a significant step towards enhancing conflict resolution resources in the high school. The program is set to begin implementation by the end of the current school year and will continue throughout the next academic year. The board requested regular updates on the program's progress and impact, emphasizing the importance of data collection to assess its effectiveness.

In addition to the conflict resolution initiative, the meeting briefly touched on other agenda items, including discussions about technology resources for El Rodeo. Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to fostering a supportive and constructive learning environment for all students.