Albuquerque Public Schools
Garfield Circle Keepers Lead the Way in Restorative Practices
Student leaders build community, resolve conflicts and inspire educators through circles and storytelling.
At Garfield STEM Magnet School, students are learning the power of circles.
In a circle, everyone sits together, passing a talking piece and taking turns to speak. The structure ensures every voice is heard and respected.
Rooted in Indigenous traditions, these circles represent equality and community—reminding students that when harm occurs, it affects everyone, and that conflicts can be repaired through listening, empathy and accountability.
When Garfield students returned from the pandemic in 2021, they faced more than just catching up on academics—they were also rebuilding relationships and a sense of belonging. That same year, Garfield launched its Circle Keepers program with just 11 students dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming environment.
The group started small, organizing care packages, spirit weeks and outdoor dances to unite students. Over time, their focus expanded.
Trained in restorative practices, the Circle Keepers now help lead Garfield’s transition from punitive discipline to repairing harm and restoring relationships. They facilitate connection circles, encourage peers to resolve conflicts peacefully and connect classmates with trusted adults when needed.
“Students are the most important voices in any school,” Garfield’s Restorative Practices Coordinator Erin Chávez said. “Too often, adults assume they alone know what is best for students, but the truth is that much of what students experience is unknown to us.”
Today, the Circle Keepers program includes 30 students across 6th, 7th and 8th grades. They also participate in the APS Peer Helpers program, receiving training in mental health and suicide prevention. Through circles and peer-led initiatives, students are improving their school community and practicing communication and conflict resolution skills they can use throughout their lives.
The Circle Keepers’ impact has extended beyond Garfield. Since 2022, they’ve partnered with the University of New Mexico, presenting to student teachers, teacher residents and other educators about restorative practices. Their sessions have included student-led circles, a documentary and even art displays that have been showcased at UNM’s College of Education and the School of Health Sciences. Over the years, they have shared their work with about 75 educators.
“Students deserve safe spaces where they can be vulnerable, share their realities and express their hopes, dreams and ideas for solving problems in their communities,” Chávez said. “When we provide this time and space, students grow into confident, compassionate people who work for the good of everyone.”
The results speak for themselves. Since the program began, Garfield has facilitated more than 250 mediations, reduced suspensions by 73%, and cut suspensions for fights by 83%. Students report fewer conflicts, stronger connections with peers and teachers, and greater confidence in resolving problems peacefully.
Chávez says middle school is the perfect time for this kind of learning: “They are building healthy communication and relationship skills while learning what it means to be responsible community members.”
Garfield’s Circle Keepers are proving that when students are empowered to lead, they can transform their school into a safer, more connected community—one circle at a time.