A teacher refers them to the mediation coordinator who calls them both in and asks if they want to try mediation. They both agree and a meeting is scheduled. Mediation brings two people together in a safe and structured environment, allows them to share more about themselves, and helps them stay focused on finding a solution that meets their needs. They listen actively, ask questions, probe for underlying interests and then help the parties reach an agreement. The mediation process is not like a court where a judge decides who is right or wrong, but more like a dialogue where the disputants come to their own agreement with the help of the mediators.
Mediation is a voluntary process.
Both parties must want to resolve the problem. Mediators cannot force parties to mediate a dispute. Mediators help the disputants realize that it is in their best interest to resolve the dispute instead of avoiding it or having to face other consequences. Mediators do not offer solutions. The best solutions are those that come from the parties themselves.