Author : Kristi Yvonne Cole
Publisher :
ISBN 13 :
Total Pages : 271 pages
Book Rating : 4.:/5 (852 download)
Book Synopsis Implementing Restorative Practices: A Case Study of How One Urban High School Approached Alternatives to Punitive Discipline Practices by : Kristi Yvonne Cole
Download or read book Implementing Restorative Practices: A Case Study of How One Urban High School Approached Alternatives to Punitive Discipline Practices written by Kristi Yvonne Cole and published by . This book was released on 2013 with total page 271 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Over the past 20 years, a serious trend has developed that disconnects too many students from school due to suspensions. Suspensions continue to widen the achievement gap within the educational system. Consistently, African American males are suspended at a much higher rate than the rest of the student population in Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Milwaukee Public Schools Data Warehouse, 2013). The purpose of this study is to determine if restorative practice is a viable alternative to punitive discipline approaches for students. Insights were revealed by gathering lived experiences of the 2011-2012 twelfth grade students and staff at one urban high school that implemented a program of restorative practices with fidelity in order to eliminate excessive suspensions and expulsions. Given the research purpose of studying a model of discipline with possible replication at other sites, the research approach was that of a case study employing methods of document analysis, observation, and individual interviews. Related research questions focused on how leadership implemented the restorative practices model and how necessary conditions for ownership of this model were created. Also, what aspects of the school climate changed as a result of the adoption of the restorative practices model? What is the effect of restorative practices implementation on the suspension rate? Finally, what impact does the restorative practices model have on relationships? The research indicates both students and staff responded positively to the use of restorative practices at this urban high school. Suspensions were limited, the student attendance rate was high and academic success was above average as compared to the district. Relationships between students and staff were strong, as well as the relationships between students. Restorative practices were not only used at the high school, but were extended in many of the students' homes and communities. Moreover, restorative practices were successfully used as an alternative to punitive discipline approaches.