Almond School students showcase 'Kindness Eagles' program promoting peer conflict resolution

Almond School brought a group of fourth- and fifth-grade students to the board to demonstrate the school's "Kindness Eagles" program, a peer-leadership effort that trains students to spot loneliness and conflict and help classmates resolve problems.

Principal Raquel Matteroli introduced the 21 students and described the program’s goals: creating a safer, more inclusive campus by teaching empathy, leadership and a simple problem-solving protocol the students call STEP. Student presenters said they observe conflicts on the playground, guide peers through a step-by-step problem-solving process—including stating the problem, suggesting solutions, considering consequences and choosing a course of action—and then help classmates apologize and reconcile when appropriate.

Student Sophia described morning greeters and the revived buddy bench as ways to help younger students feel welcome. The students role-played a playground conflict; one student said, "Small moments can change someone's day," a refrain they repeated during the presentation. Presenters noted students sometimes stay after the bell to finish problem-solving sessions and that peer-led work often builds bonds that get students to speak with peers before bringing issues to adults.

Board members and the superintendent thanked the students for the presentation and praised the program for promoting empathy and leadership.

What happens next: The board received the presentation; students returned to campus after applause and the board acknowledged the program as a model of student leadership.