The Restorative Practices Handbook is a practical guide for educators interested in implementing restorative practices, an approach that proactively builds positive school communities while dramatically reducing discipline referrals, suspensions and expulsions. The handbook discusses the spectrum of restorative techniques, offers implementation guidelines, explains how and why the processes work, and relates real-world stories of restorative practices in action.
"As assistant principal of a challenging urban high school, I have seen that restorative practices really helps students take care of issues themselves. For example, in what was one of our most chaotic classrooms, I saw students take responsibility for the situation, confront fellow students and offer constructive feedback and support for their teacher."
— Russell Gallagher, assistant principal, West Philadelphia High School, Pennsylvania
"Restorative practices has fostered a greater development of community, inclusion and empathy in our schools. Suspension rates have dropped significantly while student engagement has increased."
— W. R. (Rusty) Hick, superintendent of education, Kawartha Pine Ridge schools, Ontario, Canada
"Because of the supportive community I’ve built in my classroom, with the help of restorative practices, my students do well academically. It has created a safe place, one of trust, care and compassion."
— Susan Plewa, teacher, Twin Valley High School, Elverson, Pennsylvania
"When I first took over this school it was in “Special Measures” and at risk of being shut down. Restorative practices helped it achieve “Outstanding” status — the best it can possibly be."
— Estelle MacDonald, head teacher, Collingwood Primary School, Hull, England
