As the school year draws to a close, the Youth Development team gathered with students from Foster High School‘s Peer Mediation programs to reflect, celebrate, and express gratitude for the growth and connections made over the past year.
To mark the end of the program, students participated in an activity called The Web, where they stood in a circle and tossed a ball of yarn to one another, each time sharing something they appreciated about the next person. By the end, a physical web of yarn symbolized the deep interconnection within the group. Sharon, our Restorative Practices Liaison, shared, “You can pull on this web, and whatever you do affects anyone else who’s attached to it.”
The celebration continued with value bracelets, where each student selected a personal value and shared why it resonated with them. These moments were not only meaningful, but also a testament to the program’s emphasis on self-awareness, community, and emotional growth.
A standout student, Camila, or “Caring Camila,” as she’s known in the group, embodied the program’s spirit. As a student lead, she initiated sessions, communicated across the group, and exemplified what it means to lead with empathy. Her growth throughout the year reflected what’s possible when students are given the tools and trust to step into leadership roles.
Emotional Intelligence
This year’s work extended beyond individual skill-building. As Fergie, Youth Development Program Manager shared, the team is deeply committed to expanding emotional intelligence practices, particularly emotional regulation. That theme resonated strongly across the program. In reflecting on the importance of this work, Fergie shared a quote that had a lasting impact on her:
“Teaching people how to regulate their emotions is crime prevention. It’s addiction prevention. It’s suicide prevention. It’s generational healing… Emotional regulation is not just a soft skill. It’s survival.”
– Warpaint Journal
This vision is shaping what’s next. While the Peer Mediation program at Foster High School has concluded, the team is already working to build on this momentum. They are exploring future programming opportunities that center youth leadership and community engagement.
Meanwhile, the team at Showalter saw remarkable progress as well. Over 40 mediations were conducted, and students gained confidence and fluency in co-mediating, communicating seamlessly, and leading sessions with clarity and compassion. Their continued energy and self-led recruitment efforts speak volumes.
Gratitude
Programs like this thrive thanks to the support of our partners. We are deeply grateful to the Tukwila School District for trusting us with their students, to the school staff who welcomed us, to the parents who supported and encouraged their students’ participation, to additional staff support such as Dawn Yadron, and to our dedicated facilitators and student leaders who brought this work to life.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to cultivating emotionally intelligent, values-driven youth leadership. To continue offering programming, we rely on community support and funding. Together, let’s keep building webs of connection and understanding. Let’s keep creating space for youth to lead.