"In the afternoon there were 100 social people in a usually noisy room and you could hear a pin drop. It was amazing that despite being in a cold multi-purpose room, sitting in uncomfortable folding chairs, with poor acoustics, everyone was focused and participating. I wish that we could have that training at each school site." --Principal
"I came with the hope of learning some new communication and conflict resolution skills. I left with a deeper understanding and appreciation for of myself, along with the skills I had hoped to attain." -- Teacher "Building relationships with other adults is the first step in growing restorative practices as a district. The day was moving and inspirational and could serve as a retreat model for staffs throughout the district" --Elementary Principal “When students were asked to solve problems in past, they would respond 'I dunno,' and I would feel responsible to come up with a solution. I recognized that these solutions were not generally effective. Now I facilitate student’s thinking process, and help them come up with solutions.” -- Teacher |
“Students are much more likely to take ownership for issues affecting them and the classroom.” -- Teacher “My role and how I problem-solve has changed; I’m less likely to get angry as quickly. The project allowed me to come from a more loving and caring place.” --Teacher “I never cry in class. But there were some moments when I found the tears coming down.” -- Teacher “Things were broken and I didn’t know how to fix it. My own frustration was in the way. I noticed how cruel the kids were; it confounded me. Then in this project, to hear them voice their own pain… I was so touched; I had never cried in class before. I became more mindful that I don’t know what they walk with. I started allowing myself to see.” -- Teacher "I loved the positive energy that filled the room at the end of the day." --Teacher |
“I was surprised by what my students really want. I didn’t expect that they want to have a chance to help fix things, they want to be part of it. It changed my perception of the kids.” -- Teacher
"While holding circles is something that I've been doing for three years, this training deepened my understanding of the various aspects of the how circles work and my trust in the universal process by which humans learn to trust and heal." -- Restorative Trainer "The day was a powerful and empowering experience that renewed my efforts and gave me useful tools so that I can move forward in creating a more positive, welcoming and healthy learning and working environment for all my students." -- Participant "I felt the day was refreshing to see individuals and professionals from various backgrounds coming together as one to improve and impact the community they serve." --Elementary Principal |