Getting Started with Restorative Practices: A Guide for Administrators and Teacher Leaders
In this guide you will find:
- An introduction to restorative practices.
- A framework to explore and promote restorative practices.
- Tips on managing the school-wide adoption of practices.
- Resources to assist with early implementation of restorative practices.
About the Restorative Practices Guide:
- Restorative practices is an approach that aims to build relationships within a community as well as prevent and respond to conflict and wrongdoing. A restorative practices approach is more than a collection of protocols and activities; it is a mindset and a belief in building and restoring community. As defined by the International Institute for Restorative Practices, “Restorative Practices is an emerging social science that studies how to strengthen relationships between individuals as well as social connections within communities.”
- This guide by the Center for Education Equity at MAEC is designed to help school leaders and educators use restorative approaches to build relationships and address conflict in their schools.
This guide was developed by the Center for Education Equity at MAEC. The main authors of this guide are Susan Villani, Ed.D., Senior Program Associate at WestEd, and Su. Henry, Ed.D., Education Consultant.
With appreciation to school and district administrators, educators in schools, and family and community members who were introduced to and used sections of the pilot version of this Restorative Practices guide:
- New Rochelle City School District, New York: Dr. Rhonda Jones, Director of Pupil Services, The Task Force on Solutions to Suspension; Albert Leonard Middle School: John Barnes, Principal; Matt Lucero, Assistant Principal; the Explorers Group; selected faculty, specialists, and security team; and parents/guardians and community members who participated in an informational session.
- Orange-Ulster BOCES, New York: Diane Lang, Director; BOCES staff, and building and district administrators, counselors, social workers, guidance counselors, teachers, and other educators who participated in sessions on getting started with restorative practices.
Download MAEC's Restorative Practices
