Reflections

In our attempt to adopt new philosophies and practices, certain terms can see their definitions become muddled. The term restorative is one such word. Sometimes, people will reference “ restorative practices ” but not in the context in which they are intended to be used. I've seen where suspension has been called restorative and I've also seen where a one-sided conversation has been called a restorative conference. Neither of them is restorative. Exclusion is punitive. A one-sided conversation is just a chance for you to say what you want and for me to accept it -- maybe. When we repeatedly overus e the word “ restorative ” in the wrong way, it dilutes the meaning of the work which erodes any foundation that has been built . NYSED has named Restorative Practices (RP) a high priority for schools and districts to adopt. When done correctly, RP fits perfectly within a social-emotional curriculum. It can even find a home within a traditional code of conduct expanded to inc...