What is the meaning of restorative practices in schools?

Restorative practices in schools are centered on the idea of repairing harm and restoring relationships within the school community after incidents of conflict or misbehavior. These practices prioritize understanding the impact of actions on others and encourage open dialogue among students, staff, and the community to foster accountability and promote healing. By focusing on resolution and relationship-building rather than punitive measures, restorative practices aim to create a supportive environment that enhances social and emotional learning.

This approach helps cultivate a sense of belonging and responsibility among students, leading to improved behavior and a more positive school climate. It enables individuals involved in a conflict to express their feelings, understand the consequences of their actions, and collaboratively find ways to make amends, thereby reinforcing community bonds and preventing future issues. Consequently, educators and administrators utilizing restorative practices seek to transform the approach to discipline and conflict resolution in ways that have lasting benefits for the entire school community.