What is mediation?
Mediation is a confidential process used to resolve conflicts in an amicable manner. An impartial mediator helps parties in a dispute to resolve their issues by exploring solutions and obtaining a mutually satisfactory agreement.
What happens in mediation?
First, the mediator welcomes the participants and explains the mediation process, the mediator's role in the process, and the rules of mediation through an opening statement. Though mediators utilize varying styles, the following is the traditional format of a mediation:
- Introductory remarks by the mediator
- Statement of the problem by both parties through uninterrupted time
- Information gathering to gain a deeper understanding of the issues
- Problem identification by the mediator to identify common goals
- Reaching an agreement by generation options
The Mediator's Role
A mediator is an impartial third party who is trained to listen to the parties, clarify the parties' issues and facilitate communication to help the participants negotiate in a flexible, private setting. The mediator does not render a decision. Rather, the resolution rests with the parties.
Is mediation confidential?
Yes. All notes taken during the mediation session are destroyed immediately afterwards.
Mediation Benefits
LSCS board policy requires the use of informal resolution before a formal grievance is filed. Mediation is a fast, economical, and confidential method of informal resolution. If a settlement is reached, then a formal grievance is avoided. Mediation is a win-win for all parties.
How long does the mediation session last?
The mediation session typically lasts no more than a few hours. The DRC pilot enables employees to mediate for no more than 8 hours.
What issues are not eligible to be mediated?
Any matter that is eligible to be grieved is eligible for mediation. The LSCS Grievance Policy excludes grievances based on: termination of contractual employees; change in contract status; employee performance evaluations; allegations of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation; reduction in force terminations; and challenges to ownership of intellectual property. Please see the Grievance Policy.
Who is eligible to submit an issue for mediation?
The DRC pilot is intended for employee disputes (faculty-faculty, faculty-administration, staff-staff, staff-administration, etc.). However, the DRC may be used to resolve other types of disputes with the agreement of both parties.