Students in Ms. Keel’s 11th Grade Business class stepped away from their usual coursework last week to participate in a Team Building Circle led by the school’s Restorative Justice Youth Leaders (RJYL). The session, part of the school’s Tier 1 restorative practices, aimed to strengthen communication, collaboration, and community among classmates.
Held in a structured circle format, the activity encouraged students to explore how they interact when working in groups — from the roles they naturally assume to the communication styles they rely on. Through guided prompts and thoughtful discussion, students shared their perspectives, listened to their peers, and reflected on what it means to contribute meaningfully within a team.
RJYL facilitators emphasized creating a supportive environment where students could build authentic connections. Many participants noted that the circle helped them understand their classmates on a deeper level, making future group interactions more effective and enjoyable.
According to Ms. Keel, the Team Building Circle serves as a valuable tool for preparing students for the collaborative demands of both academic and professional settings. “When students understand how they work best with others, it transforms the quality of their group projects,” she said.
The Restorative Justice Youth Leaders plan to continue offering Team Building Circles throughout the year, reinforcing the importance of communication, trust, and mutual respect in classrooms across the school.