In August 2024, BFS partnered with inclusion and belonging consultant Mr. Juan Jacobs Sheblak for faculty orientation training on restorative discipline practices. Rather than a punitive approach, restorative practices help to build and repair relationships, with a focus on helping students take accountability and understand the impact of their actions. By prioritizing accountability and healing to resolve conflicts between students, we are developing a more supportive community.

Since our faculty orientation in August, BFS has continued its partnership with Mr. Juan Jacobs Sheblak. On October 2nd, Juan provided a follow-up session for teachers on how to facilitate a listening circle, or a conversation designed to help students process an issue that has caused harm or impacted them in a significant way. Teachers practiced facilitating a listening circle to resolve common conflicts between students so that they can consistently utilize this approach in their classrooms.  On October 11th, teachers also engaged in a collaborative session led by Principals to learn more about relationship building and accountability circles based on their National Center for Restorative Justice (NC4RJ) training. Then, teachers reviewed the draft of the newly developed BFS tiered discipline policy and student reporting tool. These were developed with input from the Teacher Leadership Team and a teacher sub-committee to synthesize feedback into final drafts.

The next steps are to:

• Get MS/HS student input on the reporting tool
• Share updates with parents at the November PTSO meeting
• Implement the new tiered discipline policy and student reporting tool in January 2025

This initiative aligns with our schoolwide goal of improving students’ emotional well-being and growth. In addition, this work is integral to supporting our school mission to empower learners in an inclusive environment that nurtures individual growth and fosters a sense of belonging. 

As we continue to grow together, we are fortunate to have a team of highly qualified teachers and faculty who are deeply committed to supporting students’ social and emotional well-being. We look forward to sharing more with parents at the November PTSO meeting.