Establishing a common restorative mindset using restorative language is a critical component for implementing restorative practices. “The Restorative Approach and Its Strategies” says, “Restorative Practices are more than a program or practice; it is a mindset, a way of doing business and approaching everyday work” (2016, 5 )1.
A restorative mindset describes how each person understands community and his/her role within the community. A key aspect of mindful schools is everyone in the school community is not only responsible for themselves, but they are also responsible for one another. In a mindful school there’s a level of accountability for students and staff for one another, not just accountability for themselves. This reflects both personal responsibility and collective responsibility.
Using restorative mindsets can cultivate and support a restorative environment. Practicing mindsets helps ensure fidelity and create a common language. Educators can use mindsets to maintain focus on restorative approach goals. Students’ mindsets can build confidence in their abilities to contribute to their school and community.
The Non-Restorative Mindset vs. The Restorative Mindset
| Non-Restorative Mindset | Restorative Mindset |
| “Assumes relationships and trust automatically exist in a school community.” | Intentionally builds relationships and trust without assuming relationships automatically occur within the school community. |
| Sides with the perspective that closely aligns to an individuals’ own values, truths, and/or beliefs. | Values and welcomes various values, beliefs and perspectives. |
| Doesn’t acknowledge or recognize a need for healing relationships | Recognizes that healing is a critical component and process for restoring relationships. |
| It does not ask for participants to show vulnerability. | It asks participants to demonstrate vulnerability. |
| The harm-doer is punished when there is harm done. | Instead of punishing the harm-doer, the person who caused the harm takes a participatory role in repairing the harm done. |
| Interpersonal conflict doesn’t need to be resolved; may “disappear” or be resolved by screaming, violence, or other unhealthy mechanisms. | Resolves interpersonal conflict by using dialogue that gets at the root of conflict without ignoring it or resolving by unhealthy strategies. |
| Acknowledges that those harmed need both support and opportunities for healing. |
Sources
- Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. 2016. “The Restorative Approach and Its Strategies: A component of the TSDC Toolkit for School Transformation,” no author. http://restorativeschoolstoolkit.org/sites/default/files/TSDC%20Guide%20for%20Admin.pdf
- Adapted from Restorative Practices Toolkit: Promoting Attachment Regulation Competency and Health, 2020, p. 8. https://charterschoolcenter.ed.gov/
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