The Staff Relations Service (SRS) is an interest-based conflict-resolution program for maintaining healthy staff relationships.
The SRS also offers all-staff training in interest-based conflict-resolution skills.
What are the objectives of the program?
The SRS follows an interest-based conflict-resolution process.
An interest-based process takes neither a hard approach (the more I get, the less you get) nor a soft approach (seeking a compromise to placate). Instead, participants gain an understanding of each other’s needs and seek to find a solution that satisfies all parties.
How does the process work?
The interest-based conflict-resolution process has four elements:
- Issue. Depersonalize the problem.
- Interests. Move from positions to interests.
- Options. Generate alternative solutions before deciding what to do.
- Action plan. Insist that the results consider the interests of all parties.
Unlike a court-mandated or arbitration process, the people involved in the conflict make the decisions, with the help of neutral facilitators. This lays the groundwork for healthy long-term working relationships.
Participation in the process is voluntary and free for active ATA members.
The process is confidential. The ATA is notified only about whether the process was successful.
Who can participate?
- All members of a school staff, to develop interest-based conflict-resolution skills
- A small group, focusing on resolution-oriented actions and dispute resolution
- Two parties involved in an interpersonal or work-related conflict
For more information about the SRS, contact Teacher Employment Membership Support.
