Conflict is inevitable and should be expected. These guidelines for resolving conflict are based on Biblical principles. All member families must agree to them.

1)  We should teach our children both compassion and forgiveness (Matthew 18:21-22). We need to view our cooperative as a place where our children can learn to resolve minor conflicts largely by themselves, and where they can learn to practice both compassion and forgiveness.

2)  In cases where a conflict pertains to the cooperative as a whole (i.e., if the root of the conflict is a pattern of behavior that is characteristic of the cooperative as a whole), the issue should be brought up to the Board and should be resolved by the Board.

3)  In cases that are isolated, that do not characterize the cooperative as a whole, and that cannot be resolved by the children themselves, the conflict should be resolved primarily by the parents of the children involved (Matthew 18:15). Conflict should be resolved in a non-confrontational way and in private. Furthermore, the analysis of the issue should be based on first-hand information rather than on third-party accounts.

4)  If (3) does not work, then the leaders need to be informed and need to step in (Matthew 18:16-17).

5)  The issue should be dealt with quickly. Let's not let the sun go down on our anger (Ephesians 4:26).

6)  The goal of resolving conflict should be reconciliation rather than vindication or punishment.

7)  Parents and teachers should regularly remind children of the Code of Conduct that they signed.