Using Restorative Practices to Prepare for Interracial Conversations About Race

We use restorative practices to help participants build their knowledge and confidence to address a crucial issue of our time - race and equity. Participants will use affective questions as a foundation for facilitating and navigating the complexities of conversing about race. Drawing from lessons in Dr. Jones-Holt's advanced practitioner workbook, we will engage participants in large and small group practices that provide them with a blend of context, content, and competencies around facilitating conversations on race and American racism.

Getting comfortable with the uncomfortable topic of race is difficult to say the least, yet critical in today's climate. This workshop session will apply the theory and continuum of practices of a restorative approach to having critical conversations about race proactively and responsively. These times can be scary, but they do not have to be. The interpersonal and self-awareness skills we cover must be taught and practiced in a safe and courageous environment if we are going to be the change we seek as adult leaders in K-12 education. What happened, how we think and feel about race past and present, who it has impacted, and what can be done to have a transformative conversation, requires a relational and restorative approach to a very difficult conversation. The role of the board and leadership team is to be the first and lead learners on these topics so they can collectively lead their school districts and communities to a better tomorrow.

The cost for this endeavor is dependent upon the size of the district or organization and the level of depth desired. Typical costs for facilitation services are $5,000 per day plus travel and expenses. The Educational and Racial Empathy Tours average $4,000 per participant for the 10-12 day experience. The apprenticeship development program costs are dependent upon whether the residential or non-residential program is needed and how much can be rallied from partnerships to offset costs. Since all qualify as professional development and/or instructional opportunities focused on the most at-potential populations of children most supplemental funding may be used to support learning and growth. The only way to offset an inequitable system is to propose one that is inherently built to serve those that the previous system did not consider. This will take not only financial commitment, but also a time and emotional one that we support your team through.