Center for Dispute SettlementPress Release
The Center for Dispute Settlement, (CDS), is pleased to announce the receipt of a grant for $100,000 from the Kellogg Foundation to train students and teachers as mediators and to implement mediation programs in DC schools.
CDS is a non-profit based in Washington that provides dispute resolution services, mediation training and program design.
When mediation programs are available in schools disputes can be addressed at an early level before they escalate to the level of violence and spread to the community involving more young people. Student mediators learn communication and conflict resolution skills and then volunteer their time to assist their peers in resolving disputes. These are skills that they can use in their schools, at home and in the community. School based mediation programs provide young people with a non-violent, constructive way to deal with conflicts that arise helping to ensure that juveniles avoid suspension and stay in school; avoid involvement with the justice system; and become productive members of their community.
CDS has experience successfully training and implementing peer mediation programs in schools at all levels. Programs were successful in reducing the suspension rates, improving school climate, reducing fights and disruptions and allowing teachers to spend more time teaching rather than disciplining.
Established in 1930, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation supports children, families and communities as they strengthen and create conditions that propel vulnerable children to achieve success as individuals and as contributors to the larger community and society. Grants are concentrated in the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean, and southern Africa.