Practical and Purposeful Restorative Practice in K-12

Compelling evidence suggests today’s education settings emphasize high academic achievement at the expense of other skills development. This heavy emphasis on testing and standards has contributed to superficial pedagogical approaches in hope of improving test outcomes. However, these approaches also play a significant role in student and family disengagement. While heavy emphasis on testing and standards persists, educators have become aware of the importance of building relationships and community within the learning environment. Consequently, emphasis has transitioned to whole child development. This shift requires educators to be attentive and informed of student experiences, traumas, and needs beyond their acquisition of Math, reading, Science, and writing skills. Transitioning to a practice of attending to the whole child also demands educators use different strategies to improve engagement and academic achievement. This chapter examines the use of Restorative practice to build and restore relationships and healthier communities to improve the quality of learning and overall engagement in schools. Examples of Restorative practice and resources to address student engagement will be highlighted throughout this chapter.