Winners Announced for the 2025 JAMS/NAPPP/OPMP 2nd Annual Online Peer Mediation Tournament

[St. Charles, MO] – The JAMS Foundation, the National Association of Peer Program Professionals (NAPPP), and the Online Peer Mediation Platform (OPMP) proudly announce the winners of the 2nd Annual International Online Peer Mediation Tournament held during the Spring 2025 season.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the following outstanding peer mediation programs whose students demonstrated exceptional communication, conflict resolution, and collaboration skills:

• Kyrene Traditional Academy – Chandler, Arizona, USA
• North Forsyth High School, Team Purple – Cumming, Georgia, USA
• Centre for Peer Mediation and Peace Building – Lagos, Nigeria

These teams stood out for their ability to mediate complex scenarios with empathy, neutrality, and professionalism. They competed in multiple rounds judged by seasoned conflict resolution professionals and educators, showcasing the global power and potential of peer-to-peer problem-solving.

This international tournament brought together schools from across the globe to promote youth leadership, restorative practices, and peace education. The event featured three rounds of scenario-based mediation challenges, all hosted virtually, offering students the opportunity to connect across cultures and time zones.

"We are inspired by the skill, maturity, and heart these students brought to the table," said Dr. Judith Tindall, President of NAPPP. "Their success reflects the strength of their peer programs and the guidance of the dedicated educators and coordinators who support them."

Each winning team will receive certificates of recognition, a digital badge for their school, and will be featured in an upcoming OPMP spotlight series. A follow-up communication will include details on prize distribution and a downloadable press kit for schools to use in their local communities.

Congratulations once again to our champions in Arizona, Georgia, and Nigeria. You are leading the way in creating a more peaceful and empowered generation!

For more information about OPMP and future tournaments, visit www.peermediationonline.org.

Media Contact:

Judith Tindall, Ph.D., President, NAPPP

Cynthia Morton, Ed.D., Project Director, OPMP

www.peermediationonline.org

Welcome to the Online Peer Mediation Platform (OPMP)

Empowering the Next Generation of Conflict Resolvers

Since the 1980s, peer mediation has been a cornerstone of conflict resolution education in the United States. Research shows that as many as 25% of schools nationwide have implemented peer mediation programs, fostering collaboration and understanding among students. However, shifts in educational models and communication preferences have highlighted the need for an innovative approach: online peer mediation.

The Online Peer Mediation Platform (OPMP) was created to meet this demand. Initially funded by the JAMS Foundation in 2014 and now managed by the National Association of Peer Program Professionals, OPMP combines the proven success of traditional peer mediation with the accessibility and versatility of online tools.

Why Online Peer Mediation?

• Expanding Access to Online Learners: Over 3 million K–12 students are enrolled in online public schools, which often lack access to traditional peer mediation programs.
• Adapting to Online Communication Trends: Today’s students prefer digital communication, making online peer mediation a natural fit for their skills and habits.
• Global Growth of Peer Mediation: Programs are expanding worldwide, particularly in Europe, Australia, and South Asia, underscoring the need for flexible, scalable solutions.

Our Goals

The OPMP is designed to:

1. Provide Comprehensive Resources: Access standards, curriculum, research, best practices, and multimedia tools to support peer mediation programs.
2. Deliver Online Training: Teach middle and high school students basic peer mediation skills through easy-to-use online modules.
3. Offer Simulated Skills Development: Enable students to practice real-life conflict resolution through online simulations, complete with feedback, debriefing, and video reviews.
4. Expand Peer Mediation Services: Equip schools with tools to bring peer mediation services to those without programs.

Additional Opportunities

• Coordinator and Mentor Training: Prepare educators and college students to lead and mentor peer mediation initiatives.
• Annual Peer Mediation Tournament: Compete globally in showcasing mediation skills in a dynamic, supportive environment.
• Organizational Conflict Resolution: Training programs for schools, businesses, and community groups to enhance communication and reduce conflict.
• Teacher-Student Mediation Training: Equip staff with strategies to restore respect and focus in the classroom.

Get Involved

Whether you’re a school, student, or educator, OPMP offers the tools, training, and support needed to foster meaningful conflict resolution skills in any setting. Explore our resources, watch videos of simulated mediations, or register for upcoming programs and events.

Together, we can create a culture of collaboration and understanding, preparing students for success in school and beyond.

2025 International JAMS/NAPPP/OPMP Online Peer Mediation Tournament

Registration is now open for the 2025 International JAMS/NAPPP/OPMP 2nd Annual Tournament for middle and high schools. The tournament begins February 1, 2025, and official ends May 31, 2025. Both middle and high school mediation team winners will be announced on June 15, 2025. Go to the tournament page to find out more.

Click HERE to view details about the tournament!

Want to start a peer mediation program, but lack the support or knowledge to get started? Check out this short video... Why Peer Mediation?