Peer to Peer and Conflict Managers meet as a year-long, 2 day cycle related arts class in 8th grade. A select group of seventh graders are chosen for each program to participate during their eighth grade year. We encourage students to apply who are comfortable serving as role models for their peers, and who would enjoy developing their leadership skills. Students must also demonstrate a strong work ethic because they will be responsible for work missed in their own classes while they are visiting with their younger peers. After turning in their application, students will be invited to our group interview. At the end of 7th grade, students who have interviewed will be notified whether they were accepted or not into the program.
***If your child was not accepted into the program, Memorial offers additional leadership opportunities such as, Builders' Club (after school club), RAD club (after school club), & Difference Makers (during the school day).
Participating in these programs requires a commitment of time, energy, dedication and desire to help and support others. Students in both of these programs are in a position of leadership and will, through their behavior and attitudes, influence others. We therefore expect our student leaders to be responsible for their conduct.
Students may only participate in one program. However, they are welcome to apply for both. While both programs utilize a peer outreach model, the goals of these two programs differ. Please refer to the information below to assist you in determining which program(s) most appeals to you.
PEER TO PEER:
Audience: Outreaches primarily to the 7th grade
Main Program Goals:
To learn how to lead groups through activities and discussions.
To facilitate activities that educate about the dangers of drugs, standing up to peer pressure and making positive decisions.
Curriculum: We begin by developing our own communication skills, leadership abilities, and teamwork. Then, we learn about various drugs and what places students at risk for experimentation and substance abuse. Our outreaches focus on understanding drugs’ harmful effects, resisting peer pressure, issues of diversity and community, and healthy decision making. In the Spring, we also facilitate a family night program to help open the lines of communication between 7th grade students and their parents.
CONFLICT MANAGERS:
Audience: Outreaches primarily to the 6th grade
Main Program Goals:
To provide skills to resolve conflicts peacefully and act as peer trainers.
To facilitate activities that promote positive decision-making and make our school a more peaceful community.
Curriculum: We begin our outreaches in October, focusing on NJ School Violence Awareness week with an Outreach about Respect.. Throughout the school year, we hone our conflict resolution skills and then facilitate 5 outreaches for the 6th graders. Our outreaches focus on resolving conflicts so both parties feel good about the resolution, conflict styles, listening skills, I-messages and how our words can hurt others. In addition to the outreaches, Conflict Managers will visit the elementary schools in June to conduct a transition lesson for the 5th graders.