House committee approves conflict resolution program for middle schools
An Alabama House committee Wednesday unanimously approved legislation that would require students to take a conflict resolution course in middle school.
SB 34, sponsored by Sen. Rodger Smitherman, D-Birmingham, requires the State Department of Education to develop the program.
'We're trying to get these kids to where they understand how you deal with conflicts and situations and not resort to … fighting, knives, guns, et cetera,' Smitherman said.
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The House Education Policy Committee adopted an amendment that would require the program to be taught in middle school, instead of high school. Smitherman said the State Superintendent Eric Mackey suggested the change.
'Dr. Mackey came over and talked to me. He said we need to start this in middle school,' Smitherman said.
A message seeking comment from Mackey was sent Wednesday afternoon.
Rep. Terri Collins, R-Decatur, supported the legislation and highlighted the importance of conflict resolution.
'I think problem solving is important, and I agree with Dr. Mackey on the timing in middle school,' she said.
The course must include lessons on: 'responsible decision-making; the causes and effects of school violence and harassment, cultural diversity, and nonviolent methods for resolving conflict, including peer mediation; the consequences of violent behavior; the causes of violent reactions to conflict; nonviolent conflict resolution techniques; the relationship between drugs, alcohol, and violence; the implementation of voluntary peer mediation programs and the integration of conflict resolution models in classrooms.'
Rep. Alan Baker, R-Brewton, also supported the legislation but was worried about the additional stress a new class would put on teachers.
'We do pile too much on the teachers, continuing things that we try to do in the total development of the child, not just academics,' Baker said.
Smitherman said it is up to the state Board of Education to decide how often, when and how the course will be taught.
The bill moves to the full House for consideration. There are four days left in the 2025 legislative session.
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