Classroom and school communities that use restorative principles
and skills to build and maintain right relationships
"We went quickly from hypothetical situations to real and present issues. What has impressed me the most is the ownership and respect of the circle and each other that the students have embraced in a short time. The class holds a much deeper level of empathy and care for each other."
--A parent participant in classroom circles Introduction to Restorative Circles
Circles are a foundation of restorative practices. They provide a structure that allows every voice to be heard, and create pathways to understanding and agreement. Participants in this training learn by directly experiencing the circle format. From this experience core concepts are illuminated and step-by-step ideas for successful circles are identified. Building a Restorative Classroom Community This training provides specific tools and activities that can be used to bring about “restorative shifts” in how we think about and respond to behavioral challenges. The focus is on preparing all members of the classroom community for successful restorative encounters, such as impromptu circles to respond to challenges or celebrate successes. Facilitating Restorative Dialogue Restorative Dialogue brings together those who have been harmed by the actions of another, with those who have harmed them. They often include others who were not directly involved but who have also been affected. This training covers preparation, facilitation, and follow-up for restorative dialogue. It gives a step-by-step framework for conducting the actual dialogue. Participants gain an understanding of awareness of process and restorative community, and the importance of these concepts for a successful dialogue. Restorative Classrooms Process Guided by an expert facilitator, this process consists of 10 weekly classroom meetings. Students, teachers, and parent volunteers learn together through a community inquiry into restorative concepts, skills, and behaviors. The process moves from working with hypothetical situations toward progressively more immediate issues that are affecting the classroom here-and-now. Participants acquire a vocabulary and skill set that mobilizes the problem solving ability of every member of the classroom. This process provides an excellent foundation for success with restorative dialog for major issues. |
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