Friendship Circle Helping Students Grow at BMS

One of the many things that make Bellbrook Middle School special is our commitment to helping students grow not only academically, but also socially and emotionally.

A shining example of this commitment is Friendship Circle, an outstanding group led by Speech Therapist Mrs. Molly Simpson and School Psychologist Mr. Evan Geist.

The purpose of Friendship Circle is to provide students with low‐pressure opportunities to practice and strengthen important social skills. Participants are selected through teacher recommendations.

As students move through adolescence, they encounter new social challenges every day.

Understanding how others may be thinking and feeling, participating in conversations, working cooperatively as a team, and engaging appropriately in games and activities are all skills that become increasingly important during the middle school years.

Building Principal Zack Cline was invited to celebrate their end‐of‐year party and came away impressed.

“It’s one of the coolest things I’ve seen at our school,” Cline said. Cline enjoyed a game of Duo Charades with the students, getting into it in a way only Cline can … going all in.

Friendship Circle creates a welcoming environment where students can openly discuss these social situations and learn why these skills matter. Many of the unwritten rules of social interaction are not always explicitly taught in everyday life, but Friendship Circle helps make them visible and understandable. Through engaging activities, conversations, and collaborative experiences, students gain valuable tools to navigate friendships, classrooms, and future opportunities with confidence.

What truly makes the group special, however, is the students themselves. Each participant brings their own creativity, unique interests, talents, and personality to every meeting. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to learn from one another make Friendship Circle a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

“A special thank you goes to Mrs. Simpson and Mr. Geist for their dedication to helping students build meaningful connections and develop skills that will serve them for years to come,” Cline said. “Friendship Circle is yet another example of BMS's commitment to helping every student feel connected, supported, and successful.”