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Hey Community,
It's been a minute, hasn't it? Life has been lifin', and amidst the whirlwind, there have been some changes I wanted to share with you all.
First, I have bittersweet news to share: I'm no longer on Instagram (let's take a moment of silence). It wasn't an easy decision, but as a recovering perfectionist and people pleaser, I realized my relationship with the platform had become unhealthy. The constant pressure of the algorithm and the culture of consumerism didn't align with my values anymore. It's all good! You can still find me on other platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok (links at the bottom). I'd love for you to subscribe to my YouTube channel to stay connected, where I've been going live with some incredible guests and discussions.
If you've been following me, you know that I currently serve as a school leader at a middle school in South Jersey. Recently, I had the opportunity to present to my Board of Education about the urgent need to implement restorative practices district-wide. It's a topic close to my heart, as studies have shown that Black students often face disproportionate punishment compared to their peers, highlighting the crucial need for more culturally responsive approaches in our schools. One study I read stated that if two Black students commit the same infraction, the second student would be punished as though they did it twice.
After I finished my presentation, someone approached me with something worth addressing: the idea that restorative practices lack accountability. This person expressed concern that students might misbehave, go to the principal's office for a chat, grab a snack, and then return to class scot-free. But let me set the record straight: restorative practices are all about accountability, but in a way that fosters understanding, growth, and genuine resolution. It's about addressing harm, repairing relationships, and building a sense of communityβnot letting students off the hook.
Restorative practices take student accountability to an even higher level because students and teachers engage in collaborative conversations around choices, actions, and behaviors that can foster actual personal growth and change. Embedded in this misconception is that restorative practices condone extreme and violent behavior.
If you've ever been to a carnival, you've seen or played the water gun games. As you hit the target, the balloon begins to fill. The balloon pops for the winner. This is the analogy of our relationship with disciplineβwe push out and send our 'problems' somewhere else to explode. Nothing is solved. Restorative practices allow students to change behavior by addressing root causes and providing the necessary services.
We have to get off of the dangerous cycle of punishment, push out, and repeat. Education can be so much more for Black and Brown students if we'd only dare to dream bigger and reimagine. I'd be honored if you'd share my work with your school leadership so we can do just that. Click the link below for my services and download my services guide to share with a decision-maker in your district. Until next time. Let's keep pushing! βπΏ
Yours In Liberation,
Bobby
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What I'm Reading
- βRooted In Joy by Dr. Deonna Smithβ
- βWhat March Madness Can Teach Us About Equity - Dr. Bettina Loveβ
The Liberation Lab Podcast
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Bobby Morgan
Bobby is an acclaimed speaker and visionary educational consultant dedicated to igniting transformative change within educators.
With his captivating and thought-provoking presentations, Bobby empowers audiences to take bold action and elevate their impact on the world.
Passionate about education and driven by a mission to build disruptive educators, Bobby works tirelessly to equip professionals with the skills and mindset needed to excel in their roles.
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