Creating a “Circle of Support” helps students recognize the team working around them and reinforces that they are not navigating school alone. Teaching students about their support team helps them:
  • Understand who to go to for different needs
  • Build self-advocacy and communication skills
  • Feel supported and connected within the school environment
  • Recognize the collaborative nature of their education
  • Prepare for active participation in IEP meetings
When students can identify their team and understand each person’s role, they are better equipped to advocate for themselves and access support independently.

Creating a Circle of Support

This activity provides a concrete way for students to visualize and understand their support network. Begin by placing the student at the center of a page. Surround the student with the individuals who support them, such as teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, and other school staff. Include each person’s name and role. To make the activity meaningful:
  • Take photos of the student with each team member when possible
  • Label each person clearly with their role (for example, “Teacher,” “TVI,” “O&M Specialist”)
  • Discuss what each person helps the student with during the school day
As you build the circle, talk through questions such as:
“Who helps you with reading?”
“Who helps you travel safely?”
“Who can you ask if you are confused in class?”
This reinforces both recognition and purpose.

​Adapting for Students with Visual Impairments

​Ensure the activity is accessible and meaningful for all learners.
  • Use braille labels or large print for names and roles
  • Incorporate tactile symbols or textures to represent different team members
  • Create a tactile graphic layout showing the student at the center and others surrounding them
  • Pair the activity with verbal descriptions and discussion
These adaptations help students with limited or no vision fully engage with and understand the concept.

​Using the Circle of Support in IEP Meetings

Encourage students to share their Circle of Support during IEP meetings. This creates a meaningful opportunity for student involvement and reflection. Sharing this visual or tactile representation can:
  • Enhance communication by clearly showing the student’s support network
  • Promote collaboration among team members and families
  • Empower the student by highlighting the people who support their success
  • Support goal-setting discussions by connecting needs to team roles
  • Celebrate progress and recognize each team member’s contributions

​Building Awareness and Independence

This activity goes beyond identification. It helps students understand how to use their support system effectively. As a follow-up, guide students to:
  • Practice asking specific team members for help
  • Explain each person’s role in their own words
  • Identify situations when they may need support
  • Reflect on how their team helps them succeed

​Why This Matters

A strong circle of support is essential for academic, social, and emotional growth. When students understand who supports them and how to access that support, they develop greater independence, confidence, and self-advocacy. By making the support team visible and meaningful, educators help students feel connected, capable, and prepared to take an active role in their education.

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