Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Restorative Practices topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Newark highlights restorative practices and alternatives to suspension
Summary
District staff described restorative alternatives to suspension for grades 3–12, a 'reds room' for grades 3–8, restorative family conversations, and partner training with PIRI; presenters said discipline referrals have declined and Panorama survey results show improved staff safety perceptions.
Presenters summarized the district's restorative-practices work, including an alternative-to-suspension program for grades 3–12 that allows students subject to out-of-school suspensions to remain on-site for instruction and counseling, and a 'reds room' for grades 3–8 now being implemented at the high school. Kim Howell (community schools coordinator) and Julia Solon said restorative family conversations are offered when relationships between families and schools are strained.
Solon cited measurement improvements: discipline referrals have gone down and staff responses on the district's Panorama survey show increased feelings of safety at work. The district has hosted training with Partners in Restorative Initiatives (PIRI) for students and staff to support implementation.
Board members acknowledged the approach as an important complement to security and technology investments and asked clarifying questions about scale and staffing for restorative programs; presenters said programs are ongoing and tied into the district's strategic plan for culture and climate.
