Circles
Circles Components
- Sitting in a circle, openly facing one another
- A talking piece that is passed around, giving the holder the opportunity to speak
- A center piece provides a unifying, central focal point, similar to gathering around a campfire
- An opening to begin the circle process
- Questions or prompts that are given by the circle keeper for all to respond to during “rounds”
- A closing to the circle
We begin by building strong, positive relationships between all members of our school: students, teachers and administrators. These connections are formed through Level 1 Circles, which help to meet powerful human needs such as belonging and caring.
![community building](https://randolphacademy.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/level-1-community-building.png)
![conflict resolution](https://randolphacademy.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/level-2-conflict-resolution.png)
When conflict arises, resolution is accomplished through Level 2 Circles where all who are affected find resolution.
When inappropriate behavior occurs, rather than remove a student with a suspension, incidents are viewed as opportunities to learn important social skills. Together with those who have been affected, a Level 3 Circle brings together everyone who has been affected — immediately — to determine what should be done to make things right.
![restorative conference](https://randolphacademy.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/level-3-restorative-confrence.png)
“I feel that our RJ circles help to clear the air and allow us to get rid of our problems. It helps to deal with each other in a safe space, get our feelings out in a respectful way, and help us to be cooperative and engaged.”
– Andreah, 9th grade student