Tidings from the Tree
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How are Restorative Practices Changing Our Schools?
Restorative Justice is a set of principles and practices centered on promoting respect, taking responsibility, and strengthening relationships. Restorative Justice invites a fundamental shift in the way we think about and do justice, from punishing individuals after wrongdoing to repairing harm and preventing its reoccurrence. It is an "alternative to retributive zero-tolerance policies that mandate suspension or expulsion of students from school for a wide variety of misbehaviors" that are not necessarily violent or dangerous.
[credit to http://www.fixschooldiscipline.org]
One study demonstrates that schools implementing Restorative Practices had an immediate downscale of violent acts by more than 50%. School staff and parents report an increased ability to self-manage, resolve conflicts, and a shift from a shame, blame, and guilt-based school discipline policy. All participants reported a significant shift in their views of discipline.
The power of this set of practices is in its focus on building relationships and developing empathy.
In the classroom, Restorative Practices involve teaching and role-modeling active listening skills, empathetic response, and emotional self-management. All participants demonstrate mutual respect, encouragement, and support.
Continue reading to discover Restorative Justice education opportunities for your school!
Humanity is making an historic shift.
Our criminal justice system typically asks these three questions:
- What law was broken?
- Who broke it?
- What punishment is warranted?
Restorative justice asks an entirely different set of questions:
- Who was harmed?
- What are the needs and responsibilities of all affected?
- How do all affected parties together address needs and repair harm?
An emerging approach to justice rooted in indigenous cultures, restorative justice is reparative, inclusive, and balanced. It emphasizes:
- Repairing harm
- Inviting all affected to dialogue together to figure out how to do so
- Giving equal attention to community safety, victim’s needs, and offender accountability and growth
Ready to bring Restorative Justice practices to your school?
Did you know LifePlay offers powerful, simple, and fun Restorative Justice education programs for classrooms and educators?
- Experiential & Educational
- Exciting & Engaging
- Affordable
Bringing LifePlay into your classroom for your students, or into your school for your educators gives your students the support they need to develop into empathetic and empowered problem solvers.
Contact us today and get started on turning your campus into an empowered campus!
Classroom programs start from $99
Educator programs start from $15 per team member
We'd love to hear from you!
Email: Hello@LifePlayProductions.com
Website: www.LifePlayProductions.com
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