Restorative circles are giving students a space to talk, listen, and solve problems together. This program is focused on open conversation and building a stronger school community. At our school, restorative circles are helping students communicate better and create a more positive school environment, where students are more involved.
It used to be that most of the time school was focused only on academics, but now our school is introducing activities like restorative justice circles that focus on building community and helping students connect with each other. These circles give students a chance to share, reflect, and express themselves in a supportive environment. This means students may have more opportunities to feel heard, build stronger relationships, and be part of a more positive school environment.
The structure of these circles is designed to be supportive. Each session is led by a pair of one teacher and one counselor. The teacher facilitates the activity-based portion of the meeting, while the counselor provides emotional support and professional guidance. This ensures that every meeting is both engaging and collaborative for all participants.
Ms. Peruffo describes the process as “a circle where people can express their thoughts and concerns and one person speaks at a time about it while everyone listens.”
These circles are held after school every Tuesday and Thursday for the remainder of the school year from 3:30 to 5:30 PM. Students also receive two community service hours per session they attend.
A participating student Baani Choudhary who attended the dance restorative circle said, “Everyone feels included and heard. Everyone really seemed to enjoy the dance and it was a fun way to start the first circle overall… And it’s easier for others to also kind of connect with each other if they have something in common.”
The program is set to expand and eventually become more student led. Next year, the school will roll out a program where students can sign up to be trained over the summer to lead these circles. A registration link will be sent out for those interested in becoming restorative justice pair leaders. Furthermore, the program is open to student ideas. If you want to create a restorative circle focused on a specific topic or activity, you can speak with Mr. Foster to make it happen.
Mr. Foster emphasizes that the long-term vision is about personal growth and connection. “The goal for restorative justice and the restorative circles is to bring together students, to have deep conversations, rooted in restoration… to have conversations that are impactful, that are thought-provoking, that are going to allow people to maybe step out of their comfort zone,” Mr. Foster said.
By prioritizing these connections, our school is moving toward a culture where every student has the chance to be seen and heard. Whether you are looking for community service hours or a place to share your voice, the restorative circles offer a unique space to build the community we all want to be a part of.
