Batavia City School District

The Batavia City School District is proud to announce that its Peer Mediation Program at Batavia Middle School has received an Excellence in Student Services Award from the Genesee Valley School Board Association. The honor was presented on Saturday, January 24, and included a Certificate of Merit from New York State Assemblyman Steve Hawley.

Following an application process, 25 Batavia Middle School students in grades 5–8 were selected to serve as Peer Mediators and completed in-depth training focused on de-escalation, communication, and peer-led conflict resolution. The training, led by Rochester CDRC trainers, took place in October at the YMCA community room and was supported by the district’s Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) team.

After completing the training, the students began serving as Peer Mediators, helping classmates navigate and resolve conflicts with guidance and support, while building leadership, empathy, and communication skills.

“On behalf of the District and our Board of Education, we are proud of this important honor achieved by Batavia Middle School,” said Jason Smith, Superintendent of Schools. “The skills gained through peer mediation will no doubt have a significant and positive impact not only on the mediators themselves, but also on the students they support. Well done.”

Alyssa Antinore, BCSD SEL Liaison and Program Lead, emphasized the value of peer leadership in middle school. “We were running mediations last year and realized the influence peers have in middle school. This opportunity has allowed us to place more power into the hands of students,” Antinore said. “Students are more likely to feel comfortable when they are being mediated by students their age. Peer mediation is powerful for all involved, and students are learning healthy ways to resolve conflict.”

Kristen Gomez, BCSD SOAR Director and Program Lead, highlighted the program’s impact on school culture and student growth. “Students often have more influence over their peers than teachers do, and this program empowers them to take ownership of the conflict resolution process with minimal adult intervention,” Gomez said. “Through this work, students have developed increased confidence and empathy, taking responsibility for their behaviors and actions. The program has been well received and effective in resolving conflicts and de-escalating situations before punitive discipline is needed.”

“This program is helping students solve problems in healthier ways,” said Dr. Megan Crine, Principal of Batavia Middle School. “They’re learning how to listen, communicate, and support each other, and that’s shaping the culture of our school in a really positive way.”

One BMS student said of the program, “Peer mediation can help prevent fights, keep friendships together, and make school a happier, safer place. It gives students a comfortable, non-intimidating way to express their feelings, especially since some may prefer talking to peers rather than adults.”

The Batavia City School District congratulates the Batavia Middle School students and staff whose leadership and commitment brought this program to life.