Peacebuilding Education: How it works!

In our latest video of this series, teacher Heidi Byler talks about the reality of creating a supportive and nurturing educational environment.  At Eastern Mennonite School, our educators are dedicated to facilitating spaces where students feel valued, safe, and empowered to explore and grow.

One of the core philosophies at EMS is the creation of ‘sacred spaces’ within the classroom—spaces where every student’s voice matters. This philosophy is deeply embedded in our approach to education, particularly when it comes to nurturing a sense of safety. Beyond physical safety, EMS prioritizes emotional and intellectual safety, encouraging students to try new things, make mistakes, and engage in thoughtful exploration.

A key element of this approach is the use of classroom circles, which are introduced right at the beginning of the academic year. These circles serve as a foundation for community building, allowing students to express their thoughts, engage in discussions, and even disagree constructively. This environment encourages even the most timid students to participate, which creates a sense of belonging and confidence.

By the time students reach third grade, many have already developed the skills to handle disagreements independently, with teachers acting as facilitators rather than problem-solvers. This empowerment is a critical part of their development, as it helps students feel capable and confident in their abilities to resolve conflicts.

And Beyond that, EMS recognizes the importance of addressing students’ social and emotional needs. Whether it’s an issue at home or a disagreement with a friend, teachers work to resolve these concerns, ensuring students remain attentive and engaged in their learning.

EMS’s commitment to restorative justice and peacebuilding is further evidenced by a group of faculty members who have pursued graduate certificates in these areas at Eastern Mennonite University. This ongoing professional development reflects the school’s dedication to continually enhance educational practices.

New students at EMS are often quick to acclimate to this culture of peace and community-building due to the strong foundation laid by their peers. As these students progress to middle and high school, they carry with them vital conflict resolution skills and self-confidence, enabling them to navigate challenges with poise and assurance. See peacebuilding at work in our third graders here: