Healing Circles for D.C. Schools

Designed to address trauma, grief, and emotional or spiritual pain, Healing Circles provides educators with a structured process for healing. In a supportive setting, participants can process difficult emotions, work towards reconciliation,
and restore balance and well-being with each other.

How Healing Circles Benefit K-12 School Communities

  • Enhancing Staff Cohesion and Collaboration

    Building Trust and Understanding: Healing Circles create a safe space for staff to share their experiences and challenges, fostering trust and breaking down silos between departments.

    Strengthening Team Dynamics: Through open communication and active listening, circles build stronger working relationships rooted in respect and empathy, improving collaboration on school-wide initiatives.

    Creating a Supportive Professional Community: Circles help reduce feelings of isolation by promoting a sense of belonging within the school, essential for thriving in high-stress environments.

  • Addressing Staff Conflict and Stress

    Providing a Constructive Outlet for Stress: Educators can openly share frustrations and receive collective support, helping to mitigate stress and burnout.

    Resolving Workplace Conflicts: Circles offer a restorative approach to addressing conflicts, repairing relationships, and fostering a harmonious work environment.

    Promoting Well-Being: By encouraging connection and understanding, Healing Circles create an environment that supports emotional resilience and prevents burnout.

  • Improving School Climate and Culture

    Modeling Restorative Practices: When staff participate in Healing Circles, they model restorative practices that ripple out to students and the broader school community.

    Improving Communication School-Wide: Better communication and collaboration among staff contribute to a more positive and cohesive school environment for students and families.

    Fostering a Positive Work Environment: Healing Circles help create a supportive workplace culture, leading to increased job satisfaction and staff retention.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Circles are facilitated by trained professionals who guide the conversation and create a safe space for open and respectful dialogue.

  • Healing Circles are open to all educators within a school community, including teachers, instructional coaches, and school leaders. Groups may be organized by role or focus to address specific challenges or foster more tailored discussions.

  • No preparation is required. Participants simply need to come with an open mind, ready to listen and share as they feel comfortable.

  • Absolutely. Healing Circles provide a restorative space to address and resolve workplace conflicts, repair relationships, and promote harmony within the school community.

  • Healing Circles focus on collective support and community healing, whereas individual therapy provides one-on-one personalized care. Both approaches complement each other in promoting well-being.

  • Unlike traditional workshops, Healing Circles emphasize personal connection, emotional reflection, and collective support rather than skill-building or instructional strategies.

  • Schools or districts typically sponsor Healing Circles as part of their wellness initiatives. Reach out to us for pricing options.