Hillsborough County Public Schools Curriculum and Instruction
Action Item

DATE: Tuesday, October 2, 2007
TO: School Board Members
FROM: MaryEllen Elia, Superintendent

SUBJECT / RECOMMENDATIONS

Adoption of Proclamation – “Mediation Week” – October 14-20, 2007 (Curriculum and Instruction Division)

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

We request the School Board adopt the attached Proclamation for “Mediation Week” for Hillsborough District Schools.

Governor Charlie Crist has designated October 14-20, 2007 as “Mediation Week” to recognize neighborhoods, community agencies, businesses, district leaders, and school personnel who effectively and efficiently resolve differences through mediation. In addition, students throughout the state of Florida are being recognized for learning the skills of mediation and assisting their peers in resolving conflicts peacefully.

In order to increase awareness about conflict resolution and its many benefits, the School Board approved a district initiative in December 1999 to establish a Peer Mediation/Conflict Resolution program in all schools. Student mediations are used on a regular basis to promote civility, to teach acceptance and understanding of diversity, and to empower students to develop solutions to conflicts that build and strengthen relationships. Through the use of school-based mediation programs, students develop skills to resolve minor infractions and conflicts before they become a disciplinary matter. As a result, many schools have experienced an increase in school attendance and a decrease in discipline referrals and suspensions.

Upon approval by the School Board, each school will be provided a copy of the Proclamation from Governor Charlie Crist and a letter from the district office encouraging all schools to observe October 14-20, 2007, as “Mediation Week”, and October 18 as “Conflict Resolution Day."

ANNUAL DISTRICT GOAL(S) AND CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTOR(S)

Critical Success Factor 5.d - Provide staff development programs that match instructional delivery strategies with diverse student achievement needs.

FINANCIAL IMPACT (Budgeted: No)

This agenda item has no additional cost to the District.

EVALUATION

SUBMITTED BY: Rhonda Harris, Supervisor, Guidance Services

Pat Smith
Director, Guidance Services
(813) 273-7074
Michael Grego, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction
(813) 272-4221
C 2
Hillsborough County Public Schools (Florida) * Mtg.#20071002_267 * Section C Item# 2