Belonging, Voice, Agency: Recent research on impact of Restorative Practices – Aug.14/23

Many schools and districts initially involved in restorative practices have let it slide. Here’s a discussion of research which underscores the value of a relational approach to education by fostering belonging and transforming schools. The 6 year study of 485 California middle schools shows increased student achievement, reduces suspensions and reduced disparities between groups. The recommendations include: 1. Incorporate indicators of exclusion, restorative practices, and school climate into continuous improvement and accountability systems 2. Secure buy-in from school staff and community members.  3. Invest in ongoing education and support for all staff to develop restorative mastery and to expand access to restorative practices among all students.  4. Provide long-term investment and support for restorative practice implementation.  5. Replace zerotolerance policies and punitive discipline frameworks  with relational approaches.  Read the research here https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/p… Find out more about how to use restorative practices to do just that. Send me a note to stan@restorative.ca