TALKING CIRCLE

The traditional "Talking Circle" is a very old way of bringing Native American people of all ages together in a quiet, respectful manner for the purpose of teaching, learning and sharing.  When approached in a certain way, the "circle" can be a powerful means of touching or bringing some degree of healing to the mind, the heart, the body or the spirit.  It's a very effective form of Native American therapy.

Today, our children are being faced with challenges linked to violence and substance abuse - all of which have a negative effect on their well-being, their family members, their school and their community.  In an attempt to provide alternatives, "Talking Circle" was conceived to which our goal is to empower the group members through building a resilient self and to promote alternatives to live a healthy lifestyle.

"Talking Circle" is offered to students in grades 4 - 6 each semester for 10 weeks.  The group is facilitated by Ms. Rosanne Reid, LMSW, School Social Worker; Mr. Jim Frank, Supervisor of Student Assistance Prevention Counseling; Ms. Ann Rossetti, LMSW, Student Assistance Prevention Counselor (Mr. Frank and Ms. Rossetti are from the Erie County Council for the Prevention of Alcohol and Substance Abuse).  Teachers help to identify students whom they feel may benefit from participating in the group and letters are sent home for parental consent.

Fieldtrips and guest speakers from the community have also been a major part of the students' "Talking Circle" experience.  For more information, please contact Ms. Reid at 816-3182.