Restorative Practices in Schools: Where Are We Now?

In August 2015, Senate Bill 100 (SB 100) passed into law aiming to transform school discipline policies and practices, end an era of zero tolerance in Illinois, and mandate that schools begin to find alternatives to suspension and expulsion. One envisioned area of change was the replacement of exclusionary discipline practices with restorative practices. As we look toward the tenth anniversary of school discipline reform, we reflect on: How has SB100 impacted Illinois schools and students? How have schools implemented restorative practices? What have the outcomes been? What do we need to better support schools and communities in this transformation process?

On Friday, April 12 from 8:30 am-3:00pm we invite you to join us for “Restorative Practices in Schools: Where are We Now?,” a reflective conference that will examine the progress made in implementing restorative practices in PreK-12 schools in Illinois and the challenges, lessons learned, and opportunities to move forward. This conference will include opportunities for school staff, district leaders, restorative practice practitioners, researchers, and policy makers to:

• Gain insight into school-based restorative practices implementation;
• Hear from districts and schools about their roll-out of restorative practices;
• Participate in workshops to gain skills in restorative practices; and
• Discuss the impact of restorative practices in the day-to-day lives of educators and students.

This event will be held at 25 East Pearson, Loyola University Chicago, School of Law. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Registration is free but space is limited, so register early!

Co-sponsored by Forest Zafran Consulting LLC.

We are seeking proposals for workshops and school and district spotlights to be featured at the "Restorative Practices in Illinois Schools: Where are We Now?" convening on Friday, April 12 from 8:30AM-3:00PM at Loyola University Chicago School of Law. We are seeking proposals for:

1. Mini-workshop: 75 minute interactive mini workshop intended to provide skills, tools, and resources to support schools in implementing restorative practices.
2. Spotlight: 20 minute presentations by schools and/or districts highlighting successful and/or innovative implementation of restorative practices.

The deadline for all proposal submissions is March 5, 2024. All proposing schools/districts will be notified of selections no later than March 13, 2024.

Complete the form linked here.

Host or Publisher Loyola's Education Law & Policy Institute