mistakes are a part of life . It ’ s what comes next that is important .
The second question asked to everyone is what they would be willing to do to support this young man . The coach offered to be the person he could come to whenever he felt overwhelmed . His uncle offered him a part-time job . The teachers suggested ways he could work with them to pull up his grades . The administrator offered a check-in , check-out process so that this young man would feel supported each and every day . It is important to note that these were all offered , but not mandated ! Circles are a place of respect and inclusiveness , and everyone has to be a part of the final say . Reference : Re-entry circle ( real ) on youtube : https :// www . youtube . com / watch ? v = uSJ2GPiptvc
What Is a Restorative Circle ?
Circles provide a process that brings people together in ways that allow them to see one another as human beings ; to talk about what matters . Barriers are lifted , understanding and collaboration happen , healing can occur . Solutions to issues are generated and put in place .
Circles are intentional . A space is created , and each circle is crafted to address a need . All circles share these features :
• Everyone in the circle is equal and has equal opportunity to speak
• Decisions are made by consensus
• Everyone agrees to abide by the guidelines and shared values established by the group
There are many different types of circles , and each serves a different purpose .
• Support circles provide emotional or spiritual support to individuals .
• Talking circles create an open dialogue about specific topics .
• Criminal justice circles work in partnership with the criminal justice system and the community to address harms caused by offenders and determine reparations to victims or communities .
• Sentencing circles may be in partnership with the criminal justice system and the community to determine individuals ’ punishments for wrongdoing .
• Reentry circles work in partnership with the school or the criminal justice system and the community to support the reentry of an offender into the community .
• School-based circles may be used by teachers as a specific teaching style , or to address the climate in the classroom .
• Domestic violence circles address harm caused in the home .
• Peacemaking circles build relationships and promote peace within a community .
• Healing circles heal bonds that have been broken or create new bonds between individuals .
Students who participate in circles gain valuable life skills such as listening , verbalizing concepts , emotional literacy and conflict resolution . These usually improve their attendance , empathy skills , and sense of responsibility . Circles contribute to students ’ improved interpersonal relationships and academic success , staying connected to their schools , and helping to prepare them for their future .
Circles are being held at Statesville High , East Iredell Middle , Pressly and Monticello for their students . If you want help putting a circle together or training on conducting circles , reach out to Piedmont Mediation Center ; 704-873-7624 . Also , workbooks for Building Peace Through Circles , a Teacher ’ s Guide ( with tons of ideas !) are available at http :// www . piedmontmediation . com / fundraisingproducts-events . shtml .
Terri Masiello , Executive Director , Piedmont Mediation Center , Inc .; proudly serving Iredell County for 30 years as of December 2016 .
6 Iredell-Statesville School & Family