Ixchel Dorabji-Reyes is a restorative peer mediator at Balboa High School. Not only has she mediated ten sessions between peers, she also created a new program called the ‘1-On-1 Check-In,’ offering restorative conversations with peers who are identified by teachers as needing an opportunity to reflect on actions and choices, think through the impact on themselves and others, and identify more positive actions to take. Ixchel felt that many students would be more receptive to engaging in reflection and accountability with the support of a peer rather than an adult. This year, Ixchel led restorative check-ins with 15 students and also mentored three students. 

Ixchel is involved in community activism. As a junior, Ixchel helped organize for human rights and raise awareness about the war in Palestine. One of her protests aimed to challenge the spirit of consumerism, resulting in the shutting down of Union Square during Black Friday. She led teach-ins and student walk-outs. She helped organize vigils in Dolores Park to honor the grief people experienced as a result of the war.  

Ixchel is a regular contributor to KPFA, volunteers with PODER’s Hummingbird Farm, and works at the Exploratorium.

Ixchel is graduating this June and heading to the University of Hawaii to study medical anthropology. Her Peer Resources teacher Amelia Bjorklund shares, “Through all of this work, Ixchel is one of the most humble and kind people you could ever meet. She doesn’t brag about her achievements and truly aims to be of service. She is incredibly encouraging and is the first person to give shoutouts to others for their hard work with the most loving appreciation.”