Empower Students with Restorative Practices
Have you heard horror stories about students before they ever enter your classroom? Have no fear, many classroom issues may be averted all together through building relationships. Imagine being able to empower your students to resolve conflicts through mediation rather than punishment. But wait, there's more. You will also be able to actually prevent most bullying and build community within your classroom. While Restorative Justice has its roots in the criminal justice system, the goal is to break the detention-suspension-expulsion cycle and end the school-to-prison pipeline narrative by building culture and community. After all, less time spent on discipline means less stress and more time for teaching.
I have been a member of IEA since I began teaching in the state 10 years ago. I have been involved with Vallivue Education Association targeted local committee, as well as a building rep for VHS. Last year, I was able to attend RA and be part of the national voice of the union. While at RA, I was elected to be the RA-REC Caucus Pacific NW chair. This year, I have become involved in PACE legislative candidate endorsement interviews and most recently the Educator Outreach Team. I was a "difficult child," so it is my goal is to make every child feel valued and worthy.
