One of the most common challenges that organizations face when implementing Restorative Practices is what is perceived as resistance to the restorative approach. They ask questions such as “How do we increase staff buy-in?” and “What do we do with ‘negative’ people who are … [Read more...]
The Talking Piece: Strategies for Helping Our Students Honor It
Here’s the Good News You’re not crazy. Children of all ages (and adults too) sometimes have trouble honoring the talking piece. Even when they’ve agreed to its principles and deeply appreciate the permission it gives them to speak and to be listened to, they call out … [Read more...]
Understanding Circles Part 4: A Site for Social Justice
There is no doubt that leadership is critically important. Often, the quality of leadership in an organization, community and classroom determine both its direction and significant outcomes. However, we are constantly reminded of the hierarchy of leadership in Western … [Read more...]
Understanding Circles Part 2 – Preparation and Logistics
Once you have decided to implement restorative circles, you may experience some anxiety surrounding circle facilitation. But why? First, anything that carries any weight usually invokes a degree of nervousness. If you understand the critical role that circles can play in … [Read more...]
Understanding Circles Part 1-The Benefits to Instructional Time
While presenting restorative practices workshops, participants often voice the concern that such methods (forming class circles, engaging student voice and implementing restorative dialogue to repair harm and restore relationships) require too much instructional class time. … [Read more...]
