SaferSanerSchools: Transforming School Cultures with Restorative Practices

Abstract

High levels of disruptive behavior, discipline referrals, and suspensions are among the symptoms of schools which have lost the bonds of respect. Educators face major challenges in transforming these school cultures. This article describes how restorative practices were implemented in certain southeastern Pennsylvania schools. The process of change is described from the perspective of faculty, students, administrators, and other community stakeholders. (Contains 11 figures and 1 endnote.)