Iman Academy had the distinct honor of welcoming Kathleen Ruane Leedy, Co-Founder and President of Teen Mediation International (TMI), for a transformative professional development session exclusively designed for our educators. Kathleen, a global advocate for mediation skills in youth and adults alike, conducted a workshop titled "Mediation Magic for Teachers", a dynamic program aimed at empowering Imanian educators with the tools to navigate conflict resolution in the classroom.

Kathleen’s visit was a highly anticipated event, bringing with it a wealth of knowledge and experience in conflict resolution and the art of mediation. Teachers, administrators, and staff gathered to participate in this engaging and interactive session, designed to help educators become adept at using mediation to foster a harmonious, productive learning environment.

The Power of Mediation in the Classroom

The workshop provided practical strategies for turning everyday classroom challenges into opportunities for growth and understanding. Kathleen introduced educators to mediation techniques that emphasize active listening, empathy, and the importance of creating spaces where all voices are heard. These skills are invaluable not only in resolving conflicts but also in promoting a classroom culture of mutual respect and cooperation.

"Teaching mediation is not just about solving conflicts," Kathleen explained during the session. "It’s about teaching students—and teachers—how to communicate, how to listen, and how to create positive relationships. Mediation builds resilience and fosters emotional intelligence, skills that are critical for both personal and academic success."

Hands-On Learning for Imanian Educators

One of the key highlights of the session was the hands-on learning experience, where teachers participated in real-life mediation scenarios. These role-play exercises allowed educators to practice mediation techniques in a supportive environment, helping them to feel more confident in implementing these skills in their classrooms.

Kathleen also provided insights into how mediation can be integrated into existing curricula, ensuring that it becomes an integral part of the school culture. She emphasized that teaching mediation skills is not only about resolving disputes but also about empowering students to handle conflicts independently, a value that aligns with the Iman Academy ethos of fostering self-awareness and responsibility in students.

A Lasting Impact on Iman Academy

Kathleen’s workshop was met with enthusiasm from the Imanian educators, who left feeling inspired and equipped with new tools to enhance their teaching practice. The session underscored the importance of building a supportive, empathetic classroom environment—an environment where students are encouraged to express themselves, work through challenges, and develop a deeper understanding of one another.

This professional development session is part of Iman Academy's ongoing commitment to nurturing both the academic and emotional growth of our students. By equipping teachers with mediation skills, we are fostering a culture of empathy, collaboration, and proactive problem-solving that benefits our entire school community.

We are incredibly grateful to Kathleen Ruane Leedy for her invaluable contribution to our educators and the Iman Academy community. Her visit marks a pivotal step forward in our mission to create a nurturing, balanced learning environment where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.