R. CHURCHILL: SAFE & INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS (CENTRAL: VISTA/BURIN)
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Mr. Churchill's Blog

Welcome to my blog. I use it to talk about my SIS work, my 
deep learning project about Joyful Learning, to explore ideas & share ideas,
and to update everyone on what's happening to promote Safe & Inclusive Schools
in Vista & Burin, the Central Region, and throughout the NLESD! 
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Restorative justice in Education

9/17/2018

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Getting to know RJE

An emerging topic that I have been learning about in my new role as the Safe & Inclusive Schools Itinerant is Restorative Justice in Education (RJE). 

The first time I remember hearing about RJE was when a former teacher of mine was doing some work with it at St. Bonaventures College, however, it is becoming increasingly popular in schools in Newfoundland and Labrador. It is a philosophy  that aligns well with PBIS. 

So, what have I learned so far? Well, the three key principles of RJE are important; they are: respect, dignity, and mutual concern. I can buy into that. Respect has always been the pillar of my classroom management practices. Moreover, I believe in the dignity of all, and I can certainly appreciate that 'mutual concern' aligns well with education: we are in the business of betterment. However, what happens when issues arise that challenge our ability to see others with these principles in mind?

Herein lies my key learning today. RJE is a proactive, rather than reactive strategy. It does not take away accountability, rather, as Evans and Vaandering note in The Little Book of Restorative Justice in Education, "those causing harm are held accountable and have an opportunity to contribute to the healing process where possible" (page 50). What I appreciate about this philosophy is that it addresses accountability of actions, but it also opens the floor for educators and students to explore the "why" behind the issue. It promotes the principle of mutual concern by showing the student that their conduct isn't viewed merely from a 'punitive,' but that there is also an opportunity to 'restore' through learning. 

I know that isn't always successful. It may not work 100% of the time, or for 100% of students; but - it's a great place to start. 

If you are interested in RJE, keep checking back to this Blog as I further my understanding. Also, the aforementioned book, The Little Book of Restorative Justice in Education, by Evans &  Vaandering makes for an interesting read. 

​As you deal with classroom management issues, think of how those three core principles of RJE can assist with repairing harm and teaching the student how to better their conduct. 

Thanks for reading,

R. Churchill 


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Together, we can create Safe, Caring, and inclusive schools.

9/10/2018

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This year I am turning to a new page in my career as an educator.

Oddly, when the school year started on September 4th I was not preparing a classroom. Rather, I found myself in an office at Clarenville High School, which is where the Vista region school board personnel are located (for the most part).

This year I am excited to be working as the Safe and Inclusive Schools Itinerant (SIS) for the Vista & Burin regions, Central Region, NLESD. So, my first days in the office have been spent acquainting myself with procedures, attending the Education Action Plan PL at Riverside,  contacting colleagues, working with schools, researching, and learning about the diverse work I will be engaged with.

The role of the SIS is broad, in which one of it's foundations is overseeing the implementation of the Department of Educations Safe and Caring Schools Policy (2013). As such, I will be helping schools create safe and caring environments with attention to bullying prevention, PBIS, LGBTQ education, relationships first/restorative justice practices, behavior management, inclusionary practices, differentiated instruction tips, mental health & wellness education, promotion of physical wellness, and much more! These are issues that are central to education. When students feel safe, cared for, and included in their schools, it is much more likely that they will achieve to their fullest potential. 

Together - students, staff, parents/guardians, stakeholders, and community members - we can create Safe, Caring, and Inclusive schools for our children. Like the best gardeners, let's ensure the soil of their education is rich with the right ingredients to see them flourish throughout their school years. 

I hope everyone has enjoyed a great first week back. See you soon.

​- Mr. Churchill       
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    Mr. Churchill is the Safe & Inclusive Schools Itinerant for Burin/Vista regions of Central, NLESD.  He enjoys outdoor activities, reading, writing, playing guitar, and walking his dog, Prince.  

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  • Welcome
  • About Me
  • Mr. Churchill's Blog
  • LEARNING IS JOYFUL
  • Links
  • AT-HOME LEARNING