In this unprecedented year, we saw how Restorative Practices were essential to the resilience and transformation required by so many schools & communities.

This time of quarantine and remote schooling has presented unique challenges for all of us working in fields that typically rely on face-to-face communication. We feel for everyone who has had to shift and adapt their work rapidly while keeping up with the changing demands of this unpredictable situation. As we continue to communicate with one another remotely, we are all doing the best we can to use existing online platforms to enhance relationships and community, which is more essential than ever. And, we have had some wonderful experiences doing just that! Here are some things we have learned about facilitating Community Building Circles on Zoom.

Restorative Practices can begin to create racial equity by building authentic relationships and through listening to the experiences and stories of those harmed by systemic racism.  At this critical time, it is especially important to make space for the stories of our black, brown and indigenous brothers and sisters.

Adjusting to this demanding situation has been difficult.  How to continue to educate the nation’s children is a specific challenge.  For many teachers this has been a crash course on distance learning; for many parents this has been a window into the daily work of teachers; and for many students it has been an experience of loss—of friends, of resources, of daily rituals.  We asked educators we work with to share both the challenges and the successes they are experiencing in this “anything but normal” time. Much of what they shared may be quite familiar and offers some comfort that we are all in this together.  Some of what they shared may give you new ideas and inspiration. 

Explore simple, restorative ways to manage stress through SEL-informed practices like mindfulness, breathing, positive self-talk, and healthy routines. Learn how adults can build resilience, support their families and communities, and stay grounded during periods of upheaval.

Begin with family and friends.  During this time when it is hard to be connected to many, be connected to those who are closest to you.  

Take time each day with the people you are living with to acknowledge what you have to be grateful for.  Gratitude is the best antidote to fear! Look for the silver lining in each day. What were you able to do today that you would not have had the opportunity to do if we were not social distancing?  And, have fun together.  

Research has revealed that suspension for non-violent offenses, particularly repeated suspension, has a limited effect on improving behavior and adversely affects achievement.  In addressing these findings, school leaders in Massachusetts and across the U.S. found that improving school climate through positive behavioral interventions, including restorative practices, resulted in much better outcomes for students.

What do school restorative practices (RP) and public health have in common? The goal of both is to improve the health and well being of the population and both come from ancient cultures. RP principles come from Restorative Justice which has roots in first nations and indigenous peoples from around the world. Ideas about public health date back to ancient Greek society.

Schools with high expectations for student behavior, paired with strong support and guidance, provide the environment in which students can grow, take risks, and build meaningful relationships. Restorative Practices offer a powerful, research-informed framework to support SEL and create school cultures where every student and staff member can succeed.

How do we respond to injustice and wrongdoing--as individuals, as a group, as a community or society?  For many, the response is that there are punishments for breaking rules. That has become our norm in the courts, in schools, and often in families.  For several decades now, there has been an increasing awareness of other approaches to wrongdoing based on the ideas of Indigenous Peoples around the globe.