While managing the most rigorous coursework offered in Fairfax County Public Schools as an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Candidate, Justin Tetelman finds time to build harmony both within and outside of Justice High School, helping to build a more peaceful and compassionate society.
Justice High School is one of six schools in Fairfax County Public Schools to implement the Restorative Justice Community Schools program. Because of Justin's advocacy, Justice is the only school in the county to launch a student-led youth pilot program. Justin serves as the lead student restorative ambassador. In this role, he facilitates student-led restorative circles within classrooms.
“I feel that restorative justice is a new approach to conflict resolution that addresses the root of the conflict, while at the same time building community connectedness,” said Justin. “This approach is an alternative to punitive policies and punishment in hopes that conflict will be deterred. Being involved in introducing such a great initiative to our school has been extremely rewarding to me. I’m motivated by the emotional and intellectual impact that our circles have on our students.”
Within the athletics program, Justin has advocated for gender equity, economic accessibility and increased diversity that is representative of Justice’s student body. He has also served as a liaison with Justice administration to convey equity-related concerns of students, in addition to organizing various drives oriented toward community needs.
In addition, he mentors freshmen and IB honor students and provides encouragement as they acclimate to high school and new challenging classes.
Outside of Justice High School, he is an active member of the Fairfax County Human Rights Commission. This group serves to amplify the voices of marginalized and underrepresented communities, and encourages productive conversations and communication about diversity.
School Counselor Megan Neforos said, “I deeply value Justin’s contribution to the Justice community. Justin is humble, kind, humorous, spiritual, gracious, and insightful. He is wise beyond his years and one of the most genuine human beings I know. With young adults like him, the world is certainly destined to be a more peaceful place.”