The nonprofit Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center recently received a $1,500 grant from Hawaii Electric Light Co. to support its East Hawaii Peer Mediation Elementary School Program.
The nonprofit Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center recently received a $1,500 grant from Hawaii Electric Light Co. to support its East Hawaii Peer Mediation Elementary School Program.
The program brings conflict resolution and prevention skills to students, developing peacemakers in East Hawaii schools.
“I have learned as a peer mediator to let the students solve their own problems and not be rude and disrespectful,” said Keonepoko Elementary School fifth-grader Caleilah-Estelle Ahyee. “I improved my communication and behavior by not interrupting conversations and to be patient when people are talking.
“I am proud to be a peer mediator because I can make the world better.”
During the 2016-17 school year, 42 fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders were trained on how to mediate disputes among students at Kapiolani and Keonepoko elementary schools. In the coming school year, Mountain View also will participate.
“We appreciate Hawaii Electric Light’s ongoing commitment to working with local charities and other nonprofit organizations toward a vision of a better Hawaii,” said Ku‘ikahi Executive Director Julie Mitchell.
“Peer mediation directly contributes to Hawaii Electric Light’s focus on community programs aimed at promoting educational excellence. Our peer mediation program helps keiki reach their full potential,” she said.
For more information about Ku‘ikahi Mediation Center, call 935-7844 or visit www.hawaiimediation.org.