Restorative Practices: The Art and Science of Talking Circles
Get ready to watch, do and review Talking Circles! Fusion Charter School (grades 7-12) is dedicated to the restorative practice of teaching social-emotional skills as a foundation for academic learning for all students, especially for those facing behavior challenges and anxiety. Teachers and administrators will learn how to lead a restorative practice Talking Circle with the purpose of introducing basic elements to staff. The session will include live demonstrations of Talking Circles followed by an opportunity to participate in and reflect upon a Talking Circle.
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103A, Long Beach Convention Center
Student Success - Equitable student culture
Breakout Session
Presented by
Assistant Principal
Fusion Charter School
David Ashby has served at Fusion Charter since its founding in 2014 by Aspiranet. In the 2017-2018 school year he introduced talking circles as a pilot for behavior issues for students referred by the local district to our alternative school. Circles have positively shaped the entire campus culture, with students and staff participating at least weekly. Parents also participate in circles at new student orientations; welcome circles provide an opportunity to discuss obstacles to school participation, including inconsistent housing.
Counselor
Fusion Charter
Mark Evanoff has served as Fusion Charter's counselor since 2016, supporting the vision of a loving, trauma-responsive school where all students prepare for a future in which they thrive.” Mark is active in collaborating with local nonprofit agencies, presenting Fusion's Talking Circles in the community, and training staff in social-emotional learning and mental health topics. Mark serves as Fusion's liaison for Homeless and Foster Youth.
SESSION RESOURCES
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103A, Long Beach Convention Center
Student Success - Equitable student culture
Breakout Session