Frequently Asked Questions

What are restorative practices?
Restorative practices focus on building strong relationships and addressing conflicts constructively by emphasizing empathy, accountability, and community. They integrate with iMTSS to align academic and SEB goals, supporting a whole-child approach to learning.

How do restorative practices benefit my classroom?
By fostering trust, mutual respect, and collaboration, restorative practices reduce disruptions, improve student behavior, and create a more inclusive learning environment. They promote academic engagement while addressing social-emotional needs, leading to stronger relationships and a positive classroom culture.

How do restorative practices fit within iMTSS?
Restorative practices are seamlessly embedded into a multi-tiered system of support (iMTSS), serving as Tier 1 strategies to create universal access to trust and empathy, Tier 2 strategies for small-group or targeted interventions, and Tier 3 approaches for personalized and intensive needs.

How can I get started with restorative practices?
Begin with simple strategies like affective statements or community-building circles. Explore the "Classroom Strategies" section for one-pagers that provide step-by-step guidance tailored for educators new to restorative practices.

How do I manage time for restorative practices in my busy schedule?
Integrate restorative strategies into existing routines, such as using check-ins during attendance or embedding collaborative circles into group work. For tips on streamlining restorative practices, visit the "Managing Time for Restorative Practices" one-pager in the "Growth and Reflection" section.

What if I’m unsure about implementing these practices?
It’s normal to feel uncertain at first! Start small and focus on one strategy, such as affective statements or reflective prompts, to build confidence. Use resources like self-assessment tools in the "Growth and Reflection" section to guide your progress and identify areas for development.

Do restorative practices really work?
Yes! Research shows that restorative practices reduce disciplinary incidents, improve student engagement, and foster inclusive, equitable classrooms. Schools integrating these practices also report higher academic achievement and stronger teacher-student relationships.

How are restorative practices connected to academic outcomes?
Restorative practices directly support academic success by fostering trust, creating safe spaces for learning, and reducing conflicts that disrupt instructional time. Strategies like circles and feedback for growth enhance collaboration, critical thinking, and motivation.

Who can I contact for support?
Reach out to the district’s restorative practices leadership team for professional development opportunities and personalized guidance on implementation.

How do I handle serious incidents with restorative practices?
Serious incidents can be addressed through formal restorative conferences, which involve all parties in a structured dialogue to repair harm and rebuild trust. These strategies require preparation and training, so refer to the "Formal Restorative Conferences" one-pager for detailed guidance.

Can restorative practices involve parents and families?
Absolutely! Restorative practices create stronger school-home connections by emphasizing collaboration and empathy. The district offers parent workshops that teach families how to incorporate restorative principles into their home environments.

How do restorative practices align with equity goals?
Restorative practices are rooted in equity, ensuring all students feel seen, valued, and supported. They address systemic biases by promoting fairness, creating inclusive spaces, and using collaborative solutions that uplift every learner.