The focus for SEED’s first meeting of the 2018-2019 school year was to welcome new members and introduce them to the grassroots work that SEED has been doing since it began in April. Members from the 2017-2018 school year introduced themselves and shared some takeaways from the first 6 months of SEED, as well as hopes for where SEED can go next.

The main activity during the SEED meeting was participating in a restorative circle. Restorative circles are a teaching tool that can be used in different ways. Sometimes restorative circles are used to help replace punitive forms of punishment with students. However, restorative circles are also a great way to build community in a classroom. Restorative circles can be used to build relationships and address challenges that students and educators are facing.

During a restorative circle, each person present gets a chance to speak without interruption and share their thoughts on questions posed to the whole group. Members of the circle are also able to pass on their turns if preferred. Restorative circles are meant to be a place where people can share their opinions or thoughts without judgment.

During the meeting, members of the circle discussed Shakopee school district’s mission statement and values. Each person was asked to look at these statements with an equity lens. Each member of the circle responded to questions about where they see the district is currently excelling and where there are areas for improvement in terms of equitable practices. There was also discussion about what each person can do to improve equity in their own classroom, office, or building.

Want to learn more about restorative circles?

https://www.edutopia.org/article/building-community-restorative-circles