Circle Keepers

Circle Keepers are student leaders who are trained in restorative practices and suicide prevention. The Circle Keepers group began in the 2021-2022 school year, with just twelve students. Since then, there have been 25-32 Circle Keepers participating in the program each year. Circle Keepers have the goal of helping to make Garfield a safe and welcoming school by building positive relationships, planning community events, facilitating connection circles in classes and at events, and encouraging their peers to solve conflicts in peaceful and positive ways. Circle Keepers also share what they know with people across the city, including student teachers, UNM faculty, state representatives, lawyers, and judges!

Circle Keepers also participate in the APS Peer Helpers program, which you can learn more about here: www.aps.edu/news/aps-good-news/aps-peer-helpers-lead-the-way-in-supporting-student-mental-health.

Check out some of the Circle Keepers' successes over the last few years!

Take a look at this video about the Circle Keeper's presentation to UNM faculty and staff. Their artwork is on display at UNM's Travelstead Hall until the end of May 2026.