INNER CIRCLE At AISB

Started Organically… Designed to support one higher-needs child socially Developed due to parent concern, child’s expressed sadness about his social world Involved the child at inception and in process, and with his input-but not at all times First involved only his class Was entirely voluntary Met weekly (but was divided by classes) Evaluated its goals Grew to the entire grade level due to peer concern Was ultimately a success for the child and peers Moved with the child to the next grade level; involved more students second year; processes continued.

Changed Form its Third Year Was conceived to support any child in need at any time in any grade 1st-4th (5 th grade had another format for peer support) Involved every child as a member during the year Needs broadened to include new/arriving kids, anyone socially isolated, anyone needing support at recess, cafeteria Simple conflict resolution process was third tier task for grades 2nd-4th (and 5 th )

Continues… To meet weekly on designated days/times Includes ¼ of the Elementary students for one quarter of the year-then continues for them as they wish outside of meetings (Once in Inner Circle, Always in Inner Circle!) Addresses the difficulty of being new from their own experiences, and what might have helped them Provides a chart of new kids (updated) and asks them to mark those for whom efforts of welcome are made Asks members to broaden support to new individuals within the grade level Asks members to be vigilant leaders on playground and within school in general Is ready to return to original purpose as needed (occurring now) Offers activities to educate socially-emotionally, with discussion and games (more work to do!)

Teaches Simple Conflict Resolution Uses a simple protocol Is practiced in our group meetings Never used in physical altercation Used only when welcomed Is documented after the event

In the future… Continue to systematize the program Develop more curriculum to be used within the short 8-9 week span each child is an active member Further liason with teachers about what is happening in our sessions and report responses and successes

And for all of us…