ProjectPEACE ProjectPEACE is a program which works to reduce conflict and violence in Pennsylvania's elementary schools by teaching students how to discuss and mediate disagreements peacefully. Children who are still in their formative years are empowered with important life-skills that promote constructive communication, teach problem-solving techniques, develop critical-thinking skills and advance self-esteem. Children are trained to take on the roles of active mediators and reduce conflict producing situations by using the mediation process. Through this program, conflicts can be settled in a positive manner, benefiting students and the school climate as a whole. During the training sessions, school teams are introduced to the peer mediation process through hands-on learning activities and received instruction in such areas as adjudication vs. mediation, diffusing conflict situations and the skills of conflict resolution. Participating school teams write their own mediation plans and introduce them to the local schools. Then, schools select and train their own student mediators and who work at helping fellow students resolve disputes peacefully. Applications are accepted from any public, private or parochial schools. Twelve schools are selected for participation - one from each of the Bar Association's geographical districts. All costs from training, lodging and meals are covered by the Pennsylvania Bar Association. Travel expenses to and from Harrisburg are the responsibility of the selected schools. Schools who have participated in ProjectPEACE: 2003 - Notre Dame Elementary School 2002 - Monsignor McHugh School 2001 - Pleasant Valley School For more information or to obtain an application to participate in ProjectPEACE, visit: www.pabar.org/public/education/projectpeace/projectpeacehome.asp MSGR. McHugh's Conflict Management Commissioning Ceremony October 8, 2002 PROGRAM I. WELCOME: Kathleen Serafin, Principal Pledge of Allegiance "Star Spangled Banner"..Sung by Amanda Major II. STUDENT SKIT/MEDIATION III. COMMISSIONING OF CONFLICT MANAGERS IV. REMARKS: Dr. Ruth Connolly, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Scranton Mary Louise Parker, President of the Monroe County Bar Association Mike Fisher, Attorney General for State of Pennsylvania CONFLICT MANAGERS: Evelyn Baker, Colin Cummings, Doug Hardy, Ashley Johnson, Victoria Laird, John Milillo, Chase Mattioli, Kim LaRezza, Megan Shaffer, Alina DaSilva, Adrianna Stigliano, Shanna Wachowski Special thanks to Mrs. Ryan, Mrs. Golden, Miss Croom and Mrs. Hensel for their time and dedication to this project.