LPSPedia

Terms, phrases and acronyms used at LPS

Restorative Practices

Restorative practices focus on proactively building relationships and community, while also addressing harm in a manner that allows for meaningful accountability. These approaches are utilized in the LPS behavior framework and contribute by addressing conflicts and behavioral issues in a constructive, relational manner.

While accountability remains a central aspect of restorative processes, the emphasis is on promoting understanding, repair, and growth. Restorative approaches may include:

  • Chats: Restorative chats may be formal or informal structured one-on-one discussions that use restorative questions, “I” statements, and empathetic listening to guide someone through reflection, problem solving, and repairing harm. Restorative chats help identify root causes, understand the impact, and take steps to repair harm.
  • Circles: Circles create a safe and equitable space for people to communicate and connect with one another. Talking Circles can be used to get to know members of the community. Conflict Circles can be used to develop agreements, repair harm, and resolve conflict. Re-entry Circles can be used to provide an opportunity to assist with harm repair and re-entry of a student back into the school community following a suspension, expulsion, alternative out of school placement, or major disruption to the environment.
  • Conferencing: Restorative conferencing may involve processing and problem solving of major incidents or incidents that impact a larger group of the school community.