5th & 6th Grade Mediators
Peer Mediators are specially trained students who help other students get along with each other. The 5th and 6th grade students in this program are trained to use conflict resolution practices and social, emotional and civic skills to solve conflicts before they grow into a larger problem. The goal of the program is to decrease instances of bullying and to foster a safe and peaceful environment for all students at JFKS.
Students in conflict may be referred to mediation by the principal, counselor, teachers, other students, or themselves.
The students are trained and supervised by the Elementary School School Counselor and represent JFKS in the Steglitz-Zehlendorf (local) district Peer Mediation Network.
High School Mediators
Peer Mediators are trained in the fundamental skills of mediation (active listening, reflection, empathy and confidentiality), and help student resolve conflicts and/or personal problems. They are also available as mentors to students struggling socially or academically. This program trains students to use conflict resolution practices and social, emotional and civic skills to play a leadership role at school, and to foster a safe and peaceful environment for all students at JFKS.
Students may be referred to “The Pier” by the principal, counselor, teachers, other students, or themselves.
The program includes scheduled visits to 7th grade homerooms with discussion about areas of concern (academics, friendship, class environment). Peer Helpers are assigned to each 7th grade classroom.
The students are trained and supervised by the School Counselors and represent JFKS in the Steglitz-Zehlendorf Peer Mediation Network.
Advocates
Mission Statement:
“The Student Advocates aim to equip students with the skills to combat bullying, promote community and peer wellness, recognize students in need of support and draw attention to important social issues that affect the John F. Kennedy School.”
This student activity is supervised the high school counselor and a high school pedagogical assistant. The group meets once a week to develop soft skills associated with problem solving, mediation, public presentation, intervention, de-escalation, and tools to support students outside of the group in their wellbeing within the JFKS community.
The Advocates also host events and lessons across the school. For example, they have given Media and Respectful Communication lessons, hosted a “Unity Week,” and have worked on monthly publications in the Muckraker on various themed topics surrounding acceptance and diversity. They are also called upon when larger scale topics affecting the student body arise such as Stress Management, Bullying, etc. The group is comprised of 11th and 12th graders who commit their time to advocating for social change and support within the student population.
If you are interested in how to become a student advocate please contact the high school counselor.
Student Ambassadors
JFKS Student Ambassadors help welcome new students to JFKS at the New Student Orientation and following up throughout the school year to ensure that newcomers to the School are acclimating well. They are also available on an on-call basis as representatives throughout the school year for various events.
To become an Ambassador students must take part in Orientation Day, as well as submit an application and teacher recommendation.
The Ambassador Program is overseen by the school counselors.
Mentors
More details to come.
