Eli Terry fifth graders present peer mediation program to board

Members of Eli Terry Elementary School's peer mediation team spoke to the South Windsor Board of Education on March 24 to describe a student-led conflict-resolution program run and supervised by school staff.

Dr. Carter introduced Mr. Huck, Eli Terry's social worker, who said the program trains students to facilitate respectful dialogue and resolve conflicts in a structured way. "We've been doing this program for about 25 years," Mr. Huck said, adding that mediators are a consistent part of the school climate work.

Several fifth-grade mediators described the program. "Peer mediation is a program where trained fifth graders help other students solve conflicts peacefully," said Owen Urek. Students explained they apply to be mediators, need teacher recommendations, participate in interviews and receive specialized training. Ten students were selected for the team, and mediators follow a structured script to keep sessions fair.

Board members asked how cases are referred and how many mediations were held this year. Students said there are paper forms available in hallways, bathrooms and the social worker's office that students can complete to request mediation, and reported "about 34" mediations this year. The board also confirmed that an adult (Mr. Huck or Mr. Silva) is present during mediations to support the process.

Students said mediations include an opportunity for each person to speak without interruption, follow-up check-ins one to two weeks later and an emphasis on neutrality rather than assigning blame. The board praised the students' work and encouraged photos for the district newsletter.

The board did not take action on this item; it was presented as a program spotlight.