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Suffield Board adopts restorative-practices policy after split vote
Summary
The board approved Policy #5131.93, establishing relationship-based interventions for non-violent student behavior. The motion passed 7–2; Chair Maureen Sattan and member Sam Toskin voted against the measure.
The Suffield Board of Education voted to adopt Policy #5131.93, the Restorative Practices Response Policy, which the superintendent described as state mandated. Assistant Superintendent Laura Norbut told the board the policy creates a framework for relationship-based interventions to address non-violent, non-criminal student behaviors that affect school climate and seeks to balance accountability with reintegration.
The measure (MOTION #26-44) was moved by Debra Dudack and seconded by James Mol. Dudack, Melissa Finnigan, Brian Fry, Mol, Dustin Rose, Gianna Rossi and Greg Sparzo voted in favor. Maureen Sattan and Sam Toskin voted against. The motion passed 7–2. Board discussion focused on implementation scope, the balance between accountability and restorative supports, and how staff would apply the framework in school settings.
Administrators indicated the policy aligns with state expectations and provides district-level guidance; implementation details and staff training were discussed as next steps but no separate implementation motion was recorded.
