Young Mediators Recognized

Two thirteen-year old students received a standing ovation from the assembled guests at the recent 20th Anniversary Celebration of the North Shore Community Mediation Center. Hanna Scotch and Michael Woo, both 13 years-old and students at the Amesbury Middle School were recipients of the Derek Sheckman Fair Play Award for Youth Mediation. Having successfully completed the peer mediation program in their school, both young teens affirmed that the mediation training has taught them to be good communicators…and especially good listeners…which are among the mediation skills they hope to use even beyond the school day. The peer mediation training helps students learn to use conversation and resolution before conflicts escalate and cause irreparable harm.

Recognizing teachers and administers as well as students from Amesbury Middle and High Schools, Newburyport High School, Andover High School, Triton Regional High School, Peabody High School, and Marblehead High School, Cynthia McClorey, NSCMC Executive Director and Anya McDavitt, Director of Youth Programs, thanked school staff for their ongoing commitment to the program which has given voice to hundreds of students who want to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of their peers.

Keynote speaker author Andre Dubus III riveted the audience with a personal account of his youth, connecting his own story to the mission of the Mediation Center. He offered a compelling case for positive role models and how he learned how to control his own behavior with the help of caring adults. Most significantly, he spoke about his decision to move from fighting to communication to resolve conflict in his life. Also on the program was Hayley Reardon, a Marblehead High School student and gifted musician who is a singer/songwriter and peace emissary.

Past President Norm Sherman and Current President, Dick Langworthy, bookended the program with appreciation to all those supporters, donors and volunteers who make the Mediation Center the valuable asset it is to the residents of Essex County. “Reaching this milestone is a tribute to all of you,” remarked Langworthy. “But we have only begun our work,” he continued, “this is a chance to look back to see how far we have come and simultaneously create a roadmap for the future so that we can continue our important work in the communities we serve.”

For more information about the programs and services of NSCMC, please contact North Shore Community Mediation Center, 978-232-1212 or email info@nsmediation.org