Schools
We model, instruct, and practice the use of community building circles and other relationship-building structures that help educators truly know their students—and help students build healthy connections with one another. These practices lead to increased engagement and improved learning outcomes. Students at every level, from kindergarten through grade 12 (and adults!) benefit from Restorative Practices. When these practices are familiar within a school community they become a transformational tool for addressing conflict and harm. Our trainings provide the tools, skills, and facilitation practice necessary to use restorative circles for community building and as an alternative to suspension and other exclusionary discipline practices.
Our services include: training, coaching, presentations, circle facilitation and team building. Scroll down to see which service is right for your school.
Training
Our teacher professional development is interactive and includes a mix of experiential and foundational learning. Participants learn the philosophy and values underpinning Restorative Practices, as well as participate in circles, examine case studies, engage in role-plays, and take part in partner and small group work. When appropriate, workshops include assignments to practice, design, and implement Restorative Practices. This ensures participants are building and utilizing skills throughout the training.
Effective implementation of Restorative Practices requires sustained practice, mentoring, and coaching beyond initial training. Because Restorative Practices represent a fundamental shift in how schools build relationships and respond to harm, meaningful change takes time, consistency, and support.
We offer onsite and virtual educational coaching to help schools and districts integrate Restorative Practices in ways that align with their unique needs. There is no single path to implementation, so our coaching is fully customized to the goals and context of each school community. In partnership with school leadership teams, we provide resources, develop tailored mentoring plans for individuals and small groups, serve as a strategic thought partner, and consult on circle facilitation and restorative responses.
Coaching may occur one-on-one, in small groups, in co-teaching pairs, or with full teams. It often includes modeling practices in real time, conducting observations with actionable feedback, and supporting the planning and reflection necessary for effective circles and restorative interventions.
We also offer consulting for school and restorative leadership teams on implementation planning and assessment. We strongly recommend developing a clear, strategic implementation plan to ensure that your investment of time and resources leads to sustainable, meaningful change.
Team Building
Foster connection and trust within your group, whether you’re meeting around faith, sports, or any of the countless wonderful reasons that draw people together. Our team at Pathways to Restorative communities can help your group build connection and trust; and when conflict arises, we can help address and resolve disagreements without escalation.
Presentations
Coaching & Consulting
As educators we have deep experience in managing complex social and cultural dynamics. Working with us will improve team communication and workplace dynamics. Whether managing office conflict, providing essential feedback, or creating a work environment that is both supportive and productive we partner with leaders to position your company for success.
“This was a fantastic training. I feel SO much more prepared to keep a circle. I have been part of circles before, but this really helped me understand the meaning behind each step. The organization of the training was excellent— the materials were engaging, and the group itself was incredibly inspiring. We learned how to keep circle by being in circles— which was perfect. I loved coming to this every week!” ~Circle Keeper training participant