Bill > S1014

This bill establishes the Youth Conflict Resolution and Peer Mediation Pilot Program, to be administered by the Center for Community Schools at the University of Central Florida starting in the 2026-2027 school year for three consecutive school years. The program aims to reduce juvenile violence by teaching students conflict resolution skills. The center will collaborate with the Department of Education to select and implement a conflict resolution curriculum, with a focus on middle and high schools that have high rates of juvenile violence. Participating schools will be required to provide training on the curriculum, teach students peaceful conflict resolution skills, and complete pre- and post-program surveys. The center will monitor program implementation, collect student discipline and violence data, and provide periodic updates to the Department of Education. Upon completion of the three-year pilot, the center must submit a comprehensive report detailing student enrollment, discipline and violence rates before and after the program, survey results, and recommendations for potential statewide implementation. The pilot program will automatically expire after the report is submitted, with the ultimate goal of improving student success and well-being by equipping students with essential interpersonal skills.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/1014