COVID 19, natural disasters, current events, and our students' everyday lives warrant an opportunity for them to have healthy relationships at school. Positive Childhood Experiences (PCE) mitigate the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE). Positive Childhood Experiences are simply an opportunity for students to have an adult that will listen to them, and allow them to have a voice. PCEs are also about students building connections with their classmates, feeling a part of a community, having opportunities to problem solve, understanding responsibility, and learning empathy. All of the aforementioned are skills developed through Restorative Practice Circles.
Traditionally, exclusionary practices such as suspension and expulsion have been utilized to address disciplinary issues in schools. These practices have negatively impacted student achievement and social-emotional learning, particularly with students who have had negative past experiences. Also, exclusionary practices adversely influence school culture and climate. The use of Restorative Practices is spreading across the field of education. The restorative process focuses on building upon positive childhood experiences, developing relationships, strengthening relationships, repairing harm, and increasing accountability.
Join us for an incredible presentation by Dr. Adam Saenz, who will share the powerful the impact of relationships and the importance of relationships in education. This exceptional day will also include the nationally acclaimed Kay Pranis, the author of the Circle Process and Circle Forward. She will discuss restorative principles and Restorative Practices in the daily life of school. Showcase districts will share how Restorative Practices is bringing joy back to teaching and supporting students during these challenging times.