Conflict Managers are Now on Duty

In keeping with Archways' commitment to treating others with consideration and respect, conflict managers are trained to help out on the school yard when they spot trouble. This is both a privilege and a big responsibility for the 4th graders who just completed conflict resolution training.

Mr. Scott, Ms. Sarah Guy and Ms. Kym began by reviewing some attentive listening skills. Students were given a handout called share which provided an acronym for a few skills needed when helping others resolve conflict. These are Shhhh! Stay quiet and still, Hear what others say, Accept what others say, Restate what you heard and Encourage others to speak. In addition, conflict managers were encouraged to help students say how they felt, to accept that there really can be two very different sides to a story and to support students in finding a solution they can both live with. After this skill review, staff role played and resolved a conflict. Students then broke into groups to do their own role playing with each participant getting a chance to manage a conflict.

I count myself as lucky to have been able to witness this instruction. The conflicts were staged but the compassion and earnestness with which these new conflict managers approached their fellow students was heartwarming. Of course, Ms. Kym and Ms. Sarah are always available but teaching students to help each other resolve conflicts is one of the ways Archway shines above and beyond the rest.

These students will now take turns with 2-3 students per day being "on duty". They are encouraged to play and have a good time but to keep an eye out for disharmony. After a week or so they will meet again to review their experiences and learn from each other.

Thank you 4th graders for your willingness to take on new responsiblitlies.