Restorative Practices II: Using Circles Effectively

Learn the value and process of circles — a practical and effective tool for creating a positive classroom climate in both secondary and elementary schools, which you will be able to use immediately.

A circle is one of several versatile restorative practices that can be used proactively, to develop relationships and build community or reactively, to respond to wrongdoing, conflicts and problems. The circle has a wide variety of purposes: conflict resolution, healing, support, decision making, information exchange and relationship development. Circles offer an alternative to contemporary meeting, disciplinary & problem solving processes that often rely on hierarchy, win-lose positioning and argument. Circles can be used in any organizational, institutional or community setting and have been widely used in primary and elementary schools for many years and more recently in secondary schools and higher education.

Using Circles Effectively gives parents, teachers, youth & family workers, police, administrators, and government officials practice in the use of circles for a variety of scenarios, and provides techniques through experiential learning that can be used immediately. 

The work of the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance is made possible through the generous support of committed individuals and institutions.