Restorative Justice and Conflict Mediation Program
The Restorative Justice and Conflict Mediation Program provides peer mediation for youth aged 12-21 using a restorative justice approach within the school setting to address conflict/violence that impacts the school community. This program provides youth with an opportunity to be accountable for their behaviour and strengthen their social skills. In addition, the program provides linkages to community services and supports, as needed, to address underlying issues which may be linked the school conflict/violence and put the youth at risk. Services with the Restorative Justice and Conflict Mediation Program is offered in both French and English.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
COORDINATE a peer mediation program designed to facilitate the reparation of harm and relationships;
PROVIDE peer mediation training and ongoing support to students and faculty leads in order to address conflict/violence that impacts the school community;
IDENTIFY the primary needs and risk level of youth in the program and appropriate intervention (i.e. peer mediation, referral to community services and supports);
INITIATE referrals to resources including community organizations, schools/school boards, police, probation, etc.;
BUILD the capacity within the school to address behavior issues;
DEVELOP the relationships between school and youth to support continuity of learning and to support increased school engagement and achievement;
ELIGIBILITY
Restorative justice and conflict mediation services are available to male and female youth who are:
- between the ages of 12-21
- enrolled in elementary or secondary school
- engaged in conflict/violence that impacts the school community
- willing to accept responsibility for their actions
REFERRALS
Referrals are received by a teacher, school administrator, probation, police, self-referral, another youth serving agency or by a parent/guardian.