Peer mediators from 25 schools who attended the first Annual Conference of Youth Mediators on May 15, 1995, at University of Southern Maine voted resoundingly to establish an association of youth mediators.
Mission
PM/AM was formed to improve and advance peer mediation and conflict management education in Maine schools. Youth Mediators, with the support of their program coordinators and University staff, promote awareness of the benefits of conflict management, engage in training sessions, and generate support of school based programs. A mission statement was written and adopted by the students:
We are the members of the Peer Mediation Association of Maine who seek support and involvement from the community for mediation as an option for resolving conflicts. With this support we hope to provide opportunities for education and awareness about conflict resolution. We hope to extend the use of mediation throughout Maine as an alternative to harassment and violence. Working together as mediators, we hope to empower individuals and foster a safer and healthier place to live. (Adopted 1997)
Structure
The Southern PM/AM Chapter is staffed by Maine Law & Civics Education, a program of the University of Maine School of Law, and meets at the University of Southern Maine campus. The chapter is open to middle school (grades 5-8) and high school programs. The Central-Northern Chapter was formed in 1996-97, and is coordinated by the Peace Studies Program at the University of Maine. The chapter includes elementary, middle and high school programs, and meets at the UMaine campus in Orono.
Functions
Students determine the year's goals and plan ways of carrying out their projects. Examples of projects are planning conferences, creating a video, developing a web site, publishing a newsletter, and presenting mediation demonstrations at schools, conferences, and to community groups.
Conferences
PM/AM holds fall mediator conferences in both southern and northern Maine. Every other year, PM/AM holds a statewide Conference of Youth Mediators. Check the website for dates and registration information!