Improving Student Outcomes Through Restorative Practices

Common school disciplinary techniques like suspensions or expulsions reduce achievement and increase misbehavior and dropout rates, especially among students of color and students with disabilities. Educators can replace these punitive discipline policies with restorative practices such as classroom meetings, community-building circles, and conflict-resolution strategies that both address students' needs and reduce misbehavior. These restorative practices strengthen relationships, build community, and create accountability systems that incorporate school climate indicators and increase staff buy-in.