RJ News Articles You Might Enjoy
Periodically, I will post an entry that includes links to articles and stories in the media that highlight restorative justice practices in school and in life. Follow the links below to learn about how other communities are using restorative justice philosophy and practices and how it is affecting their communities. Education Week, October 16, 2012, […]
A Different Approach
When I say that restorative justice (RJ) favors healing over punishment, here’s what I mean.
For misconduct, our traditional discipline system asks three basic questions:
WHAT RULES HAVE BEEN BROKEN?
WHO DID IT?
WHAT DO THEY DESERVE?[1]
Accountability is defined by legal consequences such as fines, community service, suspension, expulsion or incarceration.
It Just Makes Sense
The biggest thing I want you to remember about restorative justice is this:
It is a philosophy that just makes sense. Restorative justice is based on the assumption that when you hurt somebody, either intentionally or by mistake, you are responsible to heal the harm you caused[1] (as much as possible). This means it defines accountability, not as punishment but as being responsible to those you’ve affected[2] and working with and/or for their welfare. It’s like cleaning up your messes or holding up your end of the bargain.