Circles

As part of Circle training on the first day we read a few short pieces, works about big concepts in education—like power, authority… and joy. The question was raised, why does it matter for our children to experience joy at school?

This second-grade teacher found a way to bring comfort and promote learning in stressful times.

Teachers tell how their school has strengthened connections among students and empowered them to resolve their own conflicts. The key? Circles.

In Education Week, we share eight strategies schools can use to address stress and hardship - and bring healing and joy to both students and adults.

We offer our gratitude for the practices of Indigenous peoples, and share our land acknowledgment statement.

Here are six suggestions for how to facilitate a circle without passing a talking piece from person to person. 

In this circle activity, students reflect on the words of youth climate activists from around the world and consider their own values and hopes for the future. 

Seven common myths about restorative practices. 

Now might be a good time to review what has happened over the past year,both in our lives and the wider world. In this activity, students share reflections with the help of a short video and consider a next step.  

In her new Edutopia article, Marieke van Woerkom shares guidelines for facilitating meaningful circles that build community and skills in the classroom.