One of the best ways to get trained in restorative practices is by immersing yourself in a classroom with other educators so you can not only learn the principles and practices of restorative practices but also be a part of a learning community where ideas, successes and challenged can be discussed as a group made up of a wide variety of participants and geographical areas. We offer the following restorative practices classes:

Introduction to Restorative Practices: The first three days of the class are dedicated to exploring the fundamental values and principles of restorative practices, including opportunities to learn and practice connection circles, restorative language and conversations, and restorative agreement meetings. Participants will come away with the knowledge and skills to develop, promote and integrate restorative practices which complement and support existing initiatives.

Days four and five offer participants the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and skills by choosing one of two classes:

Restorative Mediation and Conferencing: A two-day class is dedicated to restorative mediation and conferencing for school personnel regularly responsible for addressing discipline issues. Steps in each of these two formal processes will be covered. Coaches will be present during practice sessions and questions regarding integration with existing discipline practices will be addressed. Participants will come away with the tools and knowledge to conduct both restorative mediations and conferencing. On-site opportunities for coaching may be made available upon request.

Implementation Science for Teachers and Administrators: A two-day class to meet the needs at both the school building and district level for evidence-based implementation of restorative practices. Topics include culture and climate assessment, identification of strengths and roadblocks, stakeholder participation and support, professional development recommendations, staff and administrator rubrics for restorative practices effectiveness evaluation, using restorative practices to address staff and student conflict, and building a sustainable community of practice. Participants will come away with a full understanding of best practices for restorative practices implementation for the unique needs of their school and/or district.

For more information on the latest class, please see our Summer Training Institute webpage.