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Hey Reader,

This is the time of year when walking into Target might be triggering for us. The Back To School displays are up. Some of us have even started already. 🤯 As I talk to educators, one of our biggest concerns is dealing with our students' behaviors. It's not a secret - the behaviors are out of control. It's beyond time that we remove ourselves from education's failed experiment with punitive discipline. To do so, we're delving into the core of restorative practices, dissecting some of the biggest misconceptions hindering your classroom's transformation. As we debunk these myths, may we realize the true potential of restorative practices in creating a nurturing and thriving educational environment.

Misconception 1: Restorative Practices Are Time-Consuming

Let's talk about time. It's a resource we all hold dear, and often we worry that adopting restorative practices might drain it. But what if we told you that it's not about spending more time but investing it wisely? Imagine trading the hours spent on punitive discipline for an investment in building a robust classroom community. Instead of suspensions, phone calls, and referral forms, what if your time was channeled into creating an environment where students feel valued, heard, and understood? The truth is the time spent cultivating relationships pays off exponentially in the long run. Restorative practices transform time into an investment in your students' social and emotional growth, leading to a classroom community of deep connection with your learners.

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Misconception 2: Restorative Practices Allow Kids to Escape Consequences

Now, let's address the misconception that restorative practices equal a lack of accountability. We know you care deeply about your students' growth. Restorative practices are not a "get out of jail free" card but a doorway to true reflection and accountability. Instead of punitive measures that might push students away, restorative practices engage them in a constructive dialogue about the consequences of their actions. Through open conversations and guided reflection, students actively learn from their mistakes, making amends and taking responsibility for their behavior. Restorative practices empower students to understand the impact of their actions and choose to make things right, fostering a sense of responsibility that goes beyond mere consequences. Restorative practices does not mean the absence of consequences. Consequences become effective when you've built a true community.

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Misconception 3: Restorative Practices Require Extensive Training

If you haven't already, schools are planning their professional development for teachers. Get ready for icebreakers, and the probability of sitting in front of someone wholly removed from the teaching gives you advice and encouragement. It's reminiscent of the Hunger Games, isn't it? Now, let's tackle the idea that restorative practices demand extensive training. As educators, you're already experts in your field, mastering various teaching strategies, adapting to changing curricula, and navigating the diverse needs of your students. Implementing restorative practices doesn't require a complete overhaul of your skill set. It's about integrating a mindset prioritizing relationships, empathy, and open communication. The beauty of restorative practices lies in its authenticity. By infusing your teaching with restorative values, you create an environment that values each student's unique journey and promotes growth, understanding, and accountability. Embracing restorative practices isn't about complex training; it's about bringing your expertise into a framework that benefits you and your students.

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As we journey through these misconceptions, remember that restorative practices create connections, foster growth, and nurture a positive classroom culture. It's not about more time, less accountability, or complex training; it's about transforming your classroom into a space where every student feels valued, heard, and empowered.

I know personally how transformative restorative practices can be! That's why I'm releasing my training program on restorative practices (...no name yet, 😅 still working out the kinks). Tell your teacher friends to sign up for my newsletter to be the first to know when it will be released in September! 💪🏾

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