How do schools resolve conflict?
Here are two opportunities to share what has been learned that will continue to improve the learning environments of Arkansas schools and the success of students.
I. State Handbook: Best Practices for Conflict Resolution
The Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) is soliciting best practices for conflict resolution for middle, junior high and high schools. Share solutions for resolving conflict and help other schools by sending responses to:
Brazier Watts, State Character Education Grant Manager
Arkansas Department of Education, Grant Initiatives
#4 Capitol Mall, Room 402A
Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: 501-682-5615 Fax: 501-682-9026
If enough responses are received by April 30, 2004 (extended date) this information will be developed into a state handbook of best practices for conflict resolution in middle, junior high and high schools and distributed to all of these grade levels in the fall.
Please answer the following questions and provide contact information in case clarification is necessary. ADE needs ideas!
1. What were the circumstances behind the decision to develop the conflict resolution? Describe in detail an example of the kind of conflict that occurred.
2. Describe the practice in detail (what are the activities and how are they implemented to create the best results?) Please describe goals, activities, and implementation.
3. What have been some of the major outcomes of this practice at school, e.g., fewer fights, fewer behavior incidents, etc.?
4. Are the conflict resolution activities research-based? If so, please provide or quote some of the research information and name the source of the research.
5. What types of materials were utilized to support the described practice? Identify the origin of the materials, i.e. teacher-generated or purchased from a company.
II. Conflict Resolution Mini-Grant
On February 23, 2004, the State Character Education Grant Manager, Brazier Watts, advertised a mini-grant on the Arkansas Department of Education’s Website (http://arkedu.state.ar.us, and click “Director’s Memos” to find memo SI-04-042). Middle and high schools have the opportunity to apply for funds to implement, improve or expand a school-wide plan for conflict resolution. Submissions must be received by 4:30 p.m. on April 20, 2004.