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Supporters urge state plan for restorative‑practice schools; MSDE backs statewide framework
Summary
HB 197 would direct MSDE to create a comprehensive plan for restorative practice schools, including coach training, standards and performance metrics; MSDE staff supported the bill and student and nonprofit groups testified in favor, while one written request asked for transparent community participation in planning.
Supporters of House Bill 197 told the committee that restorative practices — an approach emphasizing repairing harm and strengthening relationships — can reduce suspensions, improve school climate and teach students social and emotional skills.
Delegate Cheryl Pasteur, sponsor of the bill, said MSDE already offers workshops and that a comprehensive plan would let local school systems adopt a model intentionally. MSDE staff testified in support and outlined components the plan would include: identifying personnel to serve as restorative practice coaches, model training materials, standards for school designation, and performance metrics including reductions in exclusionary discipline, improvements in attendance, staff retention and school climate.
Student witnesses described positive outcomes in schools that use restorative approaches and urged the committee to adopt HB 197. An ACLU of Maryland representative, Frank Patanello, supported the bill with a requested amendment for transparent community participation and noted pilot results showing suspension reductions in Baltimore City schools. MSDE staff said the approach "will not eliminate all exclusionary discipline actions, but through the attention to a restorative approach and establishing a positive climate...the need for more disciplinary approaches will decrease."
Committee members asked about costs and whether the bill would require new hires; the sponsor and MSDE clarified that designation of a restorative practice coach does not necessarily require hiring a new person and that MSDE has experience supporting school systems with training.
Ending: MSDE and community partners asked for a favorable report; one community request asked that the process include directly impacted school community members. No committee vote was taken during the hearing.
