Restorative Circles

An interactive class-wide circle session that introduces 5th graders to restorative practices through a fun getting-to-know-you circle. Builds community and sets a positive tone for future circles over one 30-minute session.

This lesson focuses on using restorative circles to foster a sense of community and understanding among high school students in a social emotional program. Restorative circles are a powerful tool for building trust, encouraging open communication, and resolving conflicts in a supportive environment. This lesson will help students develop empathy, active listening skills, and a sense of responsibility towards their peers.

This lesson guides 10th-grade students through a structured restorative circle process. It teaches them about empathy and how to identify concrete actions to repair harm within a school community. The lesson is designed for one 30-minute session.

In this 45-minute, one-session lesson, 4th graders will explore how restorative conversations can positively shape our school climate by practicing empathy and active listening. Through guided warm-ups, role-plays, and a worksheet, students will build skills to repair harm and foster community.

In this 30-minute Tier 2 circle activity, 8th grade students practice active listening and supportive feedback to strengthen trust and community. Students learn key counseling skills useful for healthy peer interactions.

In this Tier 1 restorative circle lesson, 3rd graders will practice empathy, apology, and collaborative problem-solving to mend relationships. Over a single 35-minute session, students will learn structured steps to repair conflicts, strengthening their relationship skills aligned to CASEL frameworks.

This lesson introduces 3rd grade students to the concept of community circles using restorative practices. Through guided discussions and sharing, students will learn to express themselves, listen to others, and build a sense of community. This lesson is important as it helps students develop empathy, communication skills, and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for their social and emotional development.

In this 45-minute 3rd grade lesson, students engage in restorative circles to practice restorative questions, co-create a small-group Peace Plan, and set personal goals. They will complete a pre and post Likert assessment to measure social-emotional growth and celebrate their progress.

In this 20-minute, one-on-one conference session, teachers and a 9th grade student engage in a restorative circle to address behavior, build trust, and co-create positive action plans. This Tier 3 individualized guide transforms standard conferences into empathetic dialogues, fostering reflection, accountability, and improved school climate.

This lesson is designed to serve as an engaging icebreaker for 4th and 5th graders, focusing on attendance and building a sense of community. Through a combination of discussion, a fun activity, and a video, students will learn the importance of being present and how it contributes to their learning environment. This lesson will help students feel more connected to their peers and encourage regular attendance by highlighting its benefits in a fun and interactive way.

A 45-minute kick-off session for 6th graders to explore and define our school’s climate, allowing students to voice their experiences and suggestions. This Tier 1 classroom lesson builds community and sets the tone for a positive environment.

A 45-minute restorative circle lesson for 5th graders to build empathy, trust, and co-create a positive classroom climate through sharing feelings and collaborative agreements.

This lesson introduces 6th-grade students to restorative circle conversation starters, fostering a positive classroom community and enhancing communication skills. This lesson will help students learn how to respectfully share and listen in a group setting. Designed for a single 30-minute session for the whole class.

A 12-week restorative circle curriculum for 7th graders designed to build community, empathy, and conflict-resolution skills through weekly guided discussions and reflective activities. This Tier 1 classroom program fosters a supportive environment and equips students with social-emotional tools to navigate challenges. Each 45-minute session includes a warm-up, circle discussion, and closing reflection.

In this 15-minute Socratic discussion, 7th graders explore why respect, safety, and belonging matter in their daily school lives. This Tier 1 lesson builds critical thinking, empathy, and community connection, helping students articulate real-world school experiences and set a positive classroom tone.

In this 30-minute Tier 1 lesson, 7th graders will explore and co-create a positive classroom culture and climate through engaging activities and meaningful discussions. Establishing a supportive environment helps students feel valued, connected, and motivated to learn.

An engaging, one-session social-emotional lesson designed for 7th graders at the start of the school year to build community, trust, and open communication. This Tier 1 classroom lesson helps students form positive relationships and set the tone for a supportive learning environment in just 30 minutes.

In this one-session, 45-minute Tier 1 lesson for 8th graders, students will engage in interactive icebreakers and reflective activities to build community and foster a sense of belonging. This lesson sets the tone for a supportive classroom environment by helping students get to know each other and see themselves as part of a unified circle.

Three 45-minute lessons for 8th-grade boys to address a physical altercation and long-standing conflict through restorative circle practices. This series aims to help students understand the impact of their actions, develop empathy, and build strategies for peaceful conflict resolution. This lesson is for two 8th-grade boys, across 3 sessions, for a duration of 45 minutes each.

Introduce 7th graders to individual counseling concepts and foster a classroom culture of trust, self-awareness, and open communication through interactive activities.

In this 5th grade, Tier 1, 60-minute lesson, students will explore what contributes to a positive school climate. By auditing their environment and reflecting on feelings, they'll identify strengths and areas for growth, empowering them to help create a more welcoming school. Materials include interactive discussions, activities, and reflections.

A 30-minute restorative circle for 5th-grade girls to address conflicts, foster empathy, and build stronger relationships within the classroom. This lesson will help students develop crucial conflict resolution and communication skills in a supportive environment.

This lesson aims to create a safe space for Spanish-speaking students in grades 2-4 to express their feelings and worries. Through a combination of Restorative Practices and Game-Based Learning, students will engage in activities that promote emotional expression and community building. This lesson is important as it helps students articulate their emotions, fostering a supportive classroom environment.

In this 30-minute back-to-school icebreaker, each 5th grader pairs up with the teacher for a quick one-on-one chat to share their name, interests, and goals for the year. This Tier 1 activity builds community, models respectful dialogue, and helps students feel heard and valued.

This lesson introduces 7th-grade boys to the concept of restorative circles as a safe and respectful space for group discussions. It aims to establish group norms and a predictable structure, helping students with language-based learning disabilities to share and connect effectively while working towards their individual IEP goals. This lesson is for 3 students and will last 30 minutes.

This lesson helps 7th-grade students develop practical strategies for interacting with challenging peers in the classroom, fostering a more positive and productive learning environment. It's a single 30-minute session for the whole class.

In this 30-minute Tier 1 lesson for 6th graders, students will learn and practice classroom expectations for circle time—focusing on respect, active listening, and understanding consequences. By establishing clear norms and a system to earn end-of-session rewards (games, outdoor breaks, or homework time), students will build a positive, cooperative classroom community.

In this 25-minute Tier 2 small-group lesson for 4th graders, students will explore restorative practices by learning how to craft genuine apologies and develop action plans to repair harm. This targeted session strengthens social-emotional skills, builds empathy, and promotes a positive classroom climate.

This lesson focuses on restoring relationships among 9th grade girls through a circle discussion and collaborative activity. The lesson aims to create a safe space for students to express their feelings and experiences, fostering empathy and understanding. By engaging in active learning and restorative practices, students will develop skills in communication, empathy, and conflict resolution, which are essential for building and maintaining healthy relationships.

An interactive whole-class lesson to assess and boost positive interactions, helping 5th graders feel valued and connected. This 45-minute Tier 1 session engages students in reflecting on school climate and building community positivity.

A whole-class kick-off to explore and define your school’s climate, empowering 6th grade students to voice their experiences and suggestions. This 45-minute, single-session Tier 1 lesson helps students understand, reflect on, and shape their school environment through engaging activities and discussions.

An interactive whole-class lesson to assess and boost positive interactions, helping students feel valued and connected. This Tier 1 lesson for 5th graders spans one 45-minute session and includes a Climate Check Blueprint, Warmth Meter Slides, Friendly Feedback Circles activity, and an Emoji Entry warm-up.

This lesson aims to address bad behavior among middle school students by using Restorative Practices, Collaborative Learning, and Game-Based Learning. Through engaging activities and discussions, students will learn about the impact of their actions and develop strategies for positive behavior. This lesson is important as it helps students understand the consequences of their actions and encourages them to make better choices, fostering a positive and respectful classroom environment.

This lesson introduces 3rd grade students to SEL responsive circles, a tool for fostering emotional intelligence and community in the classroom. Through experiential and collaborative activities, students will learn how to express their feelings and listen to others in a supportive environment. This lesson is important as it helps students develop empathy, communication skills, and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for their social and emotional development.

In this 30-minute, one-session lesson, 7th graders will learn to strengthen classroom community using interactive activities and discussion. This session helps students feel connected, respected, and excited to learn together.

In this 30-minute group support session for 8th graders, students will come together to process grief and trauma after witnessing a shooting. Through guided discussion, an interactive activity, and a reflective cool-down, students will learn coping strategies, peer support skills, and emotional expression. This lesson helps students build resilience, foster a supportive community, and begin the healing process.

In this lesson, students will participate in an Emotional Check-In Circle, a safe space activity where they can share their current emotions and concerns. This activity is designed to foster self-expression and empathy, building a communal understanding and support network within the classroom. It is important as it helps students articulate their feelings and develop emotional intelligence, which is crucial for their social and emotional development.

In this 40-minute Tier 1 lesson for 8th graders, students identify classroom stressors and collaboratively develop agreements to foster a positive learning environment. This discussion-based lesson encourages empathy, active listening, and shared responsibility to reduce disruptions and build classroom community.

This lesson involves forming small groups where students can share personal experiences and listen to one another. The activity aims to strengthen empathy and understanding, fostering a supportive classroom environment as students return from break. This lesson is important as it helps students develop social-emotional skills, enhances their ability to empathize with peers, and builds a strong, supportive class community.

In this 30-minute Tier 2 group lesson, 6 students in an alternative behavioral setting will get to know each other, build rapport, and set a positive tone for a year-long series on self-regulation, coping skills, anger management, and anxiety. Through a warm-up, discussion, interactive activity, and cool-down, students will begin forging supportive connections and practicing attentive listening.

An interactive kickoff to co-create classroom expectations and foster community. Builds student ownership by connecting seasonal back-to-school energy with collaborative rule-making. Audience: 7th Grade, Tier 1, 1 session of 45 minutes.

Host a participation circle aimed at giving every student the opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings in a safe, respectful environment. This activity promotes inclusivity and strengthens community bonds.

This lesson involves creating a supportive circle space where students can share experiences and listen to peers, fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance. It helps students appreciate diverse perspectives and builds a warm community atmosphere, which is crucial for their social-emotional development.

10th grade small-group sessions to build relationship skills and responsible decision-making through guided community circles. This Tier 2 lesson includes circle guidelines, discussion prompts, trust-building questions, participation criteria, and reflection to support students’ social-emotional growth.

An engaging whole-class problem-solving module teaching conflict resolution and restorative practices to maintain a harmonious learning environment. This Tier 1 lesson for 4th graders spans one 50-minute session, guiding students through identifying conflicts, practicing restorative conversations, and reflecting on their process to strengthen classroom community.

This activity addresses a bias incident where a student bullied another for his race, aiming to foster understanding and empathy. It is designed for a 7th-grade student in a 1:1 setting, lasting 15 minutes, to help the student reflect on the impact of their actions and learn about the importance of diversity and respect.

In this 25-minute Tier 2 lesson for 4th graders, small groups will analyze and role-play first-day-back scenarios to practice respectful peer introductions and classroom expectations. It builds social skills, supports smooth transitions, and fosters a positive classroom climate.

Engage a 3rd grade student with a personalized attendance icebreaker that makes them feel special and acknowledged. This quick activity helps build rapport and comfort within the classroom.

In this small-group Tier 2 lesson, 4th graders will explore restorative conversations to transform mistakes into learning moments through guided discussion and hands-on planning. This helps students build a positive school climate, strengthen peer relationships, and develop problem-solving skills in a 30-minute session.

In this lesson, students will participate in an Empathy Circle, where they will practice empathetic listening by sharing personal stories and emotions. This exercise is designed to foster understanding and connection among classmates, helping students develop social-emotional skills such as empathy and active listening. By engaging in this activity, students will learn to appreciate diverse perspectives and build a supportive classroom community.

In this lesson, students will participate in an Empathy Circle Challenge where they sit in a circle and share their thoughts on empathy through guided prompts. This exercise is designed to foster listening skills and a deeper understanding of classmates' feelings and perspectives. By engaging in this activity, students will enhance their ability to empathize with others, which is crucial for building positive relationships and a supportive classroom environment.

This training session focuses on introducing middle school staff to restorative circles and their potential impact on school culture. Staff will engage in a focused brainstorming activity to develop strategies for integrating restorative circles into their school community. This session is important as it equips educators with tools to foster a positive school environment and enhance student relationships through effective communication and conflict resolution.

In this 15-minute icebreaker, 7th graders will build classroom community by playing the classic “Two Truths and a Lie” game, learning fun facts about peers while practicing listening and questioning skills. This Tier 1 activity kickstarts engagement on day one and sets a positive tone for collaboration.

This lesson focuses on building a sense of community and understanding classroom expectations among 4th graders. Through a combination of discussion, video, and activities, students will explore the importance of respect, kindness, and engagement in their school environment. This lesson is crucial for fostering a positive classroom atmosphere and encouraging students to actively participate and collaborate with their peers.

This lesson aims to boost school attendance and engagement by fostering a sense of community and belonging among Grade 8 students. Through a blended learning approach, students will participate in a discussion that encourages them to share their thoughts on school spirit and involvement. This lesson is important as it helps students feel more connected to their school environment, which can lead to improved attendance and academic performance.

This lesson aims to teach third-grade students the importance of not disrupting class and respecting both adults and peers. Through restorative practices, students will engage in activities that promote understanding and empathy, helping them to build a more harmonious classroom environment. This lesson is crucial as it fosters a positive learning atmosphere and encourages students to develop essential social skills.

This lesson aims to address bullying and racial tension among 7th-grade students through active learning strategies. By engaging in a guided discussion and a role-playing activity, students will explore the impact of bullying and learn strategies to stand up against it. This lesson is important as it fosters a safe and inclusive environment, encouraging students to empathize with others and take positive actions against bullying.

In this 30-minute small-group icebreaker for 5th graders, students build trust and showcase their unique strengths through a collaborative drawing and storytelling activity. This Tier 2 lesson fosters connection and empathy, helping students feel valued and ready for the school year.

This lesson invites the whole class to explore personal perceptions of safety and belonging, laying the groundwork for a positive school climate through engaging discussions and interactive activities. Designed for a 6th grade class in a single 45-minute session.

This lesson focuses on improving student attendance through restorative practices. It includes a discussion, an activity, and a video to engage students in understanding the importance of being present and supporting each other. By fostering a supportive environment, students can feel more connected and motivated to attend school regularly. Additionally, the lesson aims to build self-confidence in students' ability to succeed, aligning with ASCA Mindset 2.

A quick, 15-minute Tier 1 classroom lesson for 10th graders to check in on their emotions and learn mini self-regulation strategies to use throughout the day—perfect for setting a positive tone and building emotional awareness.

In this 45-minute 4th grade lesson, students engage in a structured restorative circle to practice communication and problem-solving, set one SMART goal for ongoing growth, and complete a post-assessment Likert survey to measure their progress. This experience builds empathy, accountability, and self-reflection, empowering each student to contribute positively to the classroom community.

In this introductory SEL lesson, 7th graders will learn the importance of social-emotional learning and establish a trauma-informed, trusting classroom community. By setting norms and sharing personal reflections, students will feel safe and prepared for the year ahead.

In this 15-minute 1st grade Tier 1 lesson, students will participate in a structured morning meeting to build a sense of community and strengthen character traits like kindness and respect. This routine helps students start the day positively, develop social skills, and foster emotional well-being.

This lesson involves a quick and engaging activity designed to help 7th grade girls get to know each other better and build trust. Through a game-based and collaborative approach, students will participate in a 'Friendship Circle' where they share fun facts about themselves. This lesson is important as it fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is crucial for social-emotional development.

In this lesson, students will engage in a collaborative activity to express what trust means to them through art and discussion. This lesson emphasizes forming supportive peer relationships and understanding trust-building within their classroom community. It is important as it helps students articulate their feelings about trust and learn to appreciate diverse perspectives, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic classroom environment.

This lesson aims to improve a student's attendance by engaging them in a game-based learning activity and a restorative discussion. The lesson is designed to be interactive and reflective, helping the student understand the importance of regular attendance and how it impacts their learning and social interactions. By using active learning strategies, the lesson encourages the student to take ownership of their attendance habits.

A focused session on how attitudes affect our interactions and learning. This lesson helps small groups understand the impact of positive and negative attitudes in a school environment. Designed for 3rd grade students, this 30-minute session encourages students to explore and reflect on their attitudes through engaging activities and discussions.

This lesson introduces students to the concept of Peer Support Circles, where they can share thoughts and feelings in a supportive environment. It aims to build a sense of community and improve communication skills among students. By participating in these circles, students will learn to express themselves openly and listen empathetically to others, fostering a supportive classroom environment.

In this one-session, 60-minute Tier 1 lesson for 7th graders, students will assess their school’s hallway climate, co-create a respectful code of conduct, and design persuasive posters that promote positive behavior. This unit builds collaboration, civic responsibility, and creative expression through the Hallway Harmony Campaign.