​

​

Program Components

                    

• Administrators attend Circle of Friends orientation, then Advisors (Special & General Ed teachers, counselors SLPs, school psychologists) receive additional training to implement our School Inclusion Program on their campuses.

 

• Advisors select and connect peers in general education classes to students who are socially isolated because of disability or other challenges.

 

• Through meaningful group activities, circles of 2-3 peers learn about their new friends and identify common interests.

 

• Students of all abilities commit to weekly lunches for the rest of the school year and develop genuine friendships.

 

• Advisors provide  support as needed to the peer volunteers.  Students develop 21st Century skills like emotional intelligence, problem-solving and teamwork.

 

• Monthly participation in school events promotes awareness and acceptance for all students.

 

• As CoF grows, inclusive Student Leadership Teams help Advisors plan and manage the program, including activities outside of school, presentations on ability awareness, and a year-end celebration.

​

 

Program Impact

 

• Educators feel more competent, develop positive relationships, and see potential in all their students.

 

• Students who once felt invisible now look forward to school and Circle of Friends. Their social communication improves through regular practice with peers.

 

• Students advocate for their school to be a kinder place for all, and administrators report a reduction in bullying.

 

• Parents of CoF students are encouraged to volunteer. Many see their children in a new light, and their relationship with school staff improves.

 

• All participants increase their awareness, understanding, and acceptance of differences.

 

​

Circle of Friends promotes an inclusive culture

that welcomes and values all students. 

​

​

Here's a video of how our partners in Imperial County

have implemented our program:

​

​

​

​