Restorative Justice Methods and Educational Platforms Favorable for Teachers
Restorative justice, a holistic approach to school discipline, is gaining traction in various educational institutions across the United States. This approach focuses on facilitated conversations between students, teachers, and administrators to solve behavior problems, prevent, intervene, and reintegrate students who act inappropriately or violently.
A comprehensive guide titled "Restorative Justice: A Working Guide For Our Schools" has been released by the Alameda County School Health Services Coalition, providing insights into the experiences of restorative justice practitioners in four Brooklyn schools. The NYC DOE also offers a 110-page guide on setting up an effective restorative justice plan, including useful printable forms.
In Oakland, California, efforts have been made to implement restorative justice, with both benefits and difficulties reported. A local judge found the criminal justice system inadequate for creating lasting change among young offenders, leading to the introduction of restorative justice for Oakland youth. Similarly, Chicago Public Schools have explored the concept of suspension meaning "free time" for students who misbehave, while restorative justice addresses the roots of such behavior.
The Denver School-based Restorative Practices Partnership provides a guide on the myths and realities of restorative practices and how to handle challenges in implementation. Additionally, a 16-module online training for educators on restorative justice initiatives is offered. A fully online training in restorative practices will be held Nov 8-16 2021, and a two-day online introductory course is available, with registration still available for October 14-15, 2021.
Laura Mooiman, an educator and behavior expert, explains the structure of restorative justice practices in schools in a brief video. The Denver area has selected Restorative Justice Partnership schools that have implemented this approach.
The key benefits of implementing restorative justice practices in schools include improved behavior and reduced recidivism, enhanced relationships, a positive school climate, better academic outcomes, conflict-resolution skills, and a reduction in arrests and disciplinary actions. However, challenges such as initial workload and training demands, misconceptions and skepticism, potential imbalance focusing on offenders over victims, self-selection bias in research, and ensuring fidelity must be addressed for successful implementation.
Research supports the effectiveness of restorative justice in schools and justice settings. Meta-studies show it can reduce fear, anxiety, anger, and increase victim security and trust in others, while offenders tend to accept accountability without further abuse. Educational reports document measurable declines in suspensions and arrests and improved student attitudes and engagement. While some literature notes no increase in victim satisfaction compared to traditional justice, many victims report positive experiences with restorative justice, though concerns remain about genuine apology and emotional validation.
In summary, restorative justice in schools offers a promising alternative to punitive discipline by improving student behavior, school climate, and educational outcomes while reducing suspensions and arrests. Its success depends on overcoming initial implementation challenges, addressing misconceptions, meeting victims’ needs adequately, and committing to proper program fidelity. Videos demonstrating the use of restorative justice in schools, such as a restorative welcome and reentry circle for previously incarcerated students, are also available. Oakland USD has published an implementation guide for restorative justice in schools, and a shift towards restorative practices can help schools by promoting a more supportive learning environment.
[1] California Endowment, (2017). Restorative Justice in California Schools: A Review of the Evidence. [2] Sherman, L., & Strang, H. (2017). The Little Book of Restorative Justice: How it Works, Why it Matters, and Where it Comes From. [3] Mooiman, L. (2021). Restorative Justice in Schools: A Brief Overview. [4] Sherman, L., Strang, H., & Wexler, H. (2018). Restorative Justice in the United States: An Overview. [5] Losen, D. J., & Martinez, R. (2016). Restorative Justice in Schools: A Review of the Evidence.
- To foster a supportive and conducive learning environment, teachers and school administrators may consider incorporating professional development programs focused on stem education, as part of a comprehensive education-and-self-development plan.
- In line with the emphasis on personal growth and improvement, students might benefit from supplementary learning resources that promote stem subjects, addressing not only academic subjects but also equipping them with practical skills for future careers.
- By offering additional opportunities for stem learning both inside and outside school, pupils can develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making themselves more competitive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
- As learning and education are essential aspects of individual development, continuous professional development for teachers is key in ensuring students receive high-quality and up-to-date instruction in their stem subjects, contributing to their overall personal growth as well as academic success.
