Executive Certificate in Building Restorative School Communities
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today we have Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in restorative practices and the lead instructor for the Executive Certificate in Building Restorative School Communities. Dr. Smith, can you tell us a bit about your personal experiences with restorative justice in education? GUEST: Of course! I've worked in education for over 20 years and have seen firsthand how restorative practices can transform school cultures. It's all about fostering positive relationships and creating safe, supportive learning environments. HOST: That's wonderful. Now, as an expert in this field, what current industry trends are you seeing that relate to this course? GUEST: There's a growing demand for restorative justice in education. As schools focus more on social-emotional learning and mental health, restorative practices become essential for addressing conflicts, repairing harm, and building stronger communities. HOST: It's true, schools are increasingly recognizing the importance of holistic student development. Now, what challenges have you faced or observed when implementing restorative practices in schools? GUEST: The main challenge is changing the mindset from punitive to restorative. It requires time, patience, and consistent training for both educators and students. But the results are worth the effort, with improved school climates and better academic outcomes. HOST: That's a valuable insight. Looking toward the future, where do you see restorative justice in education heading? GUEST: I believe restorative practices will become standard in schools, as they not only benefit individual students but also contribute to healthier, more inclusive school communities. It's an exciting time for education professionals who want to make a difference. HOST: Absolutely, Dr. Smith. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise and insights with us today. We're looking forward to learning more about building restorative school communities in your course. GUEST: Thank you for having me. I'm excited to share this knowledge with your audience and help education professionals create positive, inclusive school environments.
