PBIS and restorative practices go hand in hand. The multi-tiered approach utilized at MRHS promotes productive interpersonal relationships, academic seat time, behavioral expectations, and community cohesiveness. It is important to understand that PBIS and restorative practices work to recognize the purpose or function of poor student behavior in hopes of identifying a need that is not being met. This understanding can only be achieved through trust, positive relationships, effective communication, consistency, and fairness.
The Restorative Justice Council indicates that the term "restorative practices" is more widely used to refer to the work in schools and philosophically based in fostering relationships, strengthening understanding, repairing harm, and building strong communities. Restorative practices in schools are designed to create an inclusive climate and culture. Restorative justice is intended to prevent lower-level behaviors and conflict from rising to the level of law enforcement involvement.
Restorative Justice tends to refer more specifically to incidents where identifiable victim(s) and offender(s) will be involved. Colorado Springs Teen Court is an example of a restorative justice strategy that is regularly utilized here at MRHS. Colorado Springs Teen Court provides an opportunity for those most affected by a crime (i.e., the victims, the community, and the offender) to be directly involved in the justice process. Please see the video located in the right sidebar.
