Peer mediation is a special opportunity to learn constructive ways of dealing with the conflicts that students are faced with everyday. Students often have disagreements. Sometimes disagreements result in pushing, shoving, and fighting. Teasing and name calling are other ways that students may express anger and frustration. Peer mediators learn new ways to deal with conflicts so that no one gets hurt. They participate in a special training program where they learn and practice listening skills, problem solving, and negotiating skills. As the school year continues, peer mediators will help their classmates solve problems peacefully, under the supervision of their advisor, Mrs. Johnston. This group also plans to host their third Blood Drive scheduled for 11/19/09-parent night conference from 3:30-8:30 pm "Kindness Week" January 2010, and the schoolwide NBA Zone (NO Bullies Allowed). For more information email Mrs. Turpin-Orgetas at turpinsgymclass@yahoo.com Last Years Blood Drive: One of the goals of the Oak Grove Peer Mediation Club is to reach out to the community and help those in need. There is a severe shortage of blood in our area, and that 350 pints of blood are needed everyday. Unfortunately, only 2% of the population donates blood. The Peer Mediation Club decided that they would like to help alleviate the blood shortage. Our 5th grade peer mediators made our blood drive successful by escorting donors to the registration booth, to the canteen for juice and cookies, babysitting, and greeting at the main door. Several 5th grade students volunteered his/her time that day, and we greatly appreciate it. Last year we were able to save 49 lives with the help of the teachers/community voluntters Thank you for your support of our school and the New York Blood Center.