Restorative justice in Education

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