Restorative Practices for High School Freshman

Empowering High School Freshmen with Restorative Practices

As students enter their freshman year of high school; they step into a world of new experiences, challenges, and opportunities for growth. One of the most impactful tools we can offer these young students is training in restorative practices. This powerful approach not only enhances their effective communication skills but also creates a strong sense of community, autonomy, and shared accountability within the school environment. 

Building Effective Communication Skills

Training freshmen in restorative practices equips them with essential communication skills that are critical for their personal and academic development. These practices emphasize active listening, empathy, and constructive dialogue, enabling students to express themselves clearly and understand others' perspectives. As freshmen learn to navigate conflicts and misunderstandings with empathy and respect, they become more confident and effective communicators.

Creating a Supportive and Inclusive Community

Restorative practices are instrumental in building a supportive and inclusive community within schools. By engaging in restorative circles and dialogues, freshmen learn the value of collaboration, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. This sense of community is further strengthened as students work together to address and repair harm, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

Promoting Student Autonomy in School Culture

Empowering students with restorative practices gives them greater autonomy over their school's culture and climate. Freshmen trained in these practices are better equipped to take an active role in shaping a positive and inclusive school environment. They become leaders and advocates for change, helping to create a culture that reflects their values and aspirations.

Addressing Inequities and Celebrating Diversity

Restorative practices can be seamlessly integrated into after-school groups and clubs, providing a platform for students to address inequities, explore intersecting identities, and confront biases and stereotypes. Through these practices, students can create a community that celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of inclusion. By engaging in honest and open conversations, freshmen can challenge assumptions, build bridges, and promote understanding among their peers.

Reducing the Burden on Teachers and Administrators

Training freshmen in restorative practices also benefits teachers and administrators by distributing the responsibility of maintaining a positive school environment. When students take an active role in upholding restorative principles, it reduces the heavy lifting required from educators while significantly decreasing suspension and expulsion rates, as well as chronic absenteeism. When students are trained in these practices, they develop a sense of shared accountability and feel more included in their school community. By addressing conflicts and repairing harm through restorative circles, students are less likely to engage in behaviors that lead to disciplinary actions. Moreover, the inclusive environment fostered by restorative practices encourages consistent attendance, as students feel valued, understood, and supported, reducing the desire to skip school. This holistic approach not only enhances individual student well-being but also promotes a more positive and cohesive school culture.