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WPDI Enters into New Partnership with the Switzer Learning Center in the Framework of our Domestic Harmonizer Program in the United States

May 29, 2024 – We’re thrilled to announce that the Domestic Harmonizer Program (DHP), our Peace Education initiative in the United States, has recently entered into a new partnership with the Switzer Learning Center (SLC). This collaboration aims to introduce our restorative practices to the center’s educators and students. The Switzer Learning Center caters to students who have encountered trauma and adversity, including behavioral issues, learning challenges, and hail from the foster care system. Through this collaboration, we intend to bring the DHP’s expertise in conflict resolution and transformative social-emotional learning to enhance the well-being of the student population.

“Our partnership with the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative will be instrumental in fostering a culture of peace and understanding on our campus. The last training session was incredibly impactful, as it equipped our staff with valuable tools to promote conflict resolution and social harmony. In the next few years, we look forward to further strengthening this partnership and empowering our community to become active agents of positive change,” said Dr. Sylvia Landaverde, Ed.D., MPA, Director of People & Culture at the SLC.

On March 15, we launched the partnership with a training session for all staff and educators at Switzer Learning Center. The workshop focused on the foundations of conflict, understanding educator’s personal conflict styles, and concluded with an action-based dialogue that encouraged educators to share their own stories and solutions to a challenge that they experience at their school site.

“WPDI is pleased to launch this unique partnership with Switzer Learning Center, whose dedication to innovative learning solutions and commitment to student success aligns perfectly with our work,” said Monya Kian, WPDI’s DHP Program Director. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Switzer, and supporting them in implementing our peace education tools and having a meaningful impact in the school community.”

The profound understanding of conflict at an emotional level that the DHP program brings to the table has been very inspiring for coordinators at the SLC. This is underlined by Mr. Joshua Ortega, the center’s Professional Development Coordinator: “The Conflict Resolution Education program offered by the Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative left a profound impact on me. Beyond acquiring practical skills, it fundamentally shifted my perspective on conflicts. Here’s what I took away from the training: firstly, I learned the immense value of empathy and active listening. Rather than approaching conflicts with judgment, I now strive to understand others’ viewpoints. This skill has proven invaluable in personal disagreements and community disputes alike. Secondly, the training equipped me with de-escalation techniques. When tensions rise, I can defuse situations effectively, finding common ground and preventing escalation. Thirdly, communication skills became a focal point. I discovered the power of clear, assertive communication — a vital tool for resolving conflicts constructively. Additionally, I embraced the principles of nonviolent communication. Lastly, the WPDI program emphasized the long-term impact of conflict resolution. It’s not merely about quick fixes; it’s about creating lasting peace. I now feel a sense of responsibility to pass on these skills to others, contributing to a global culture of peace. In summary, WPDI’s approach encourages us to actively choose peace, recognizing that conflicts can be opportunities for growth and positive change.”

The partnership between WPDI and the Switzer Learning Center promises to be highly beneficial to students. Given the diversity of the student body, the center’s staff faces unique challenges on a daily basis. They are educators and also mentors, expected to navigate the complexity of individual situations adeptly. By integrating WPDI’s Conflict Resolution Education curriculum, the staff can enhance their support for students, fellow colleagues, and parents. “This collaboration not only strengthens the educators’ abilities but also fosters an environment where students can flourish academically and socially. Together, they are shaping a future where everyone can believe, achieve, and thrive,” said Janina Gricius, M.A., LMFT, ART-BC, School Therapist.

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