Conflict Resolution in Teacher Education (CRETE)

In this episode, we focus our conversation on Conflict Resolution in Teacher Education (CRETE). The mission of the CRETE project is to provide pre-service and in-service teachers with skills and knowledge of conflict education and social and emotional learning necessary for creating constructive learning environments. The Conflict Resolution Education in Teacher Education (CRETE) curriculum combines the best of theory and practice to build and enhance skills in conflict management and classroom management including: bullying prevention, communication, positive discipline, managing disruptive students, building classroom and school community, and restorative practices. Conflict Resolution Education (CRE) has proven effective in reducing negative student behavior, improving classroom climate, enhancing students' social and emotional competencies, and providing students critical skills for cooperatively managing conflicts with peers and adults (Aber et al, 2003). Our guest speaker Margaret Leeds has been actively involved in the field of conflict management as mediator, trainer, and consultant since 1992, when, as Assistant Principal at Beverly Hills High School, she initiated the school’s Peer Mediation program. This indoctrination to the mediation process led to extensive formal training in the field of conflict resolution, including a Master of Dispute Resolution Degree from Pepperdine University Law School and, ultimately, to her current career as a conflict management consultant. Formal training and experience in conflict management, coupled with thirty-seven years as a distinguished educator and school administrator (recipient of 1987 National Educator Award), have prepared Ms. Leeds to be of particular value to universities and school districts who are confronted with conflicts that are endemic to academia. You can reach Margaret at maleeds@prodigy.net Web Links www.creducation.org www.stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov/kids/