Restorative Practices

Developing community and managing conflict by repairing harm and building relationships.

At Spokane Public Schools, we strive to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and staff. We want all SPS families to feel connected to their schools and to feel understood, heard, and respected. Conflicts are a part of daily life and making mistakes is a part of growing and learning. With this in mind, SPS embraces a restorative approach to conflict, meaning that we see conflicts and harmful behavior as an opportunity for students and staff to:

• Learn about themselves and each other
• Take accountability
• Develop empathy
• Repair harm and restore relationships
• Identify supports that meet the individual for each of our students.

Need Help Resolving a Conflict?

Conflicts are a part of daily life and oftentimes the people involved can resolve them on their own. Sometimes, though, it is helpful to have a neutral person facilitate a restorative conflict resolution process. This process helps ensure that everyone feels heard, respected, and safe, and that the process is fair and that the outcome meets everyone’s needs.

If you are a student, parent, or staff member and would like help resolving a conflict, please contact Erin Lipsker by email or at 509.354.7242.

Trainings

Frequently-offered trainings include:

• Circles for Building Community and Responding to Conflict
• Mediation for Restorative Conflict Resolution
• Restorative Processes for Repairing Harm

These all can be tailored to fit the specific needs of your group. Contact Erin Lipsker to schedule.