Traditionally, schools have dealt with these kinds of conflicts punitively. In mediation, the two conflicting parties sit with a trained peer and discuss their differences. The peer mediator guides the discussion to help the quarreling students find solutions to their conflict. Once the two parties agree, they each sign a contract that outlines what each will do to solve the problem. All mediation sessions are confidential.
Mediation assumes no fault.
A trial seeks to learn the truth. Mediation seeks to find an equitable solution. A trial deals with facts. Mediation deal s with the feelings and perceptions behind the facts. In a trial, a judge makes a decision.