Restorative Practices Made Simple

The Restorative Practices Made Simple video series helps you understand the power of this transformative approach to building relationships and creating positive learning environments. You will learn how you can bring this approach to your school and make a lasting difference in the lives of your students.

Dr. Gaye Lang, Director for Restorative Practices for the Texas Education Agency, is joined every month by a panel of educators who share their experiences and successes with Restorative Practices. The panel will showcase real-world examples of how this approach has positively impacted students in their schools and communities. From reducing disciplinary problems to improving student engagement, you'll see the tangible results of Restorative Practices in action.

1: The Untapped Goldmine

January 9, 2023 — Dr. Gaye Lang introduces the "Untapped Goldmine" that is Restorative Practices. She is joined by Aretha Franklin Burleson from Houston ISD and Laura Richard Crosby from Crosby ISD. 

2: It's All About Building Relationships

February 2, 2023 — Dr. Gaye Lang and panelists Yanitizie Oquendo and Jennifer McCready introduce the concept of the Community Building Circle and discuss its critical role, "It's All About Building Relationships".

3: So Simple Even Students Can Do It

March 8, 2023 — Dr. Gaye Lang and panelists Jennifer Harwell and Aretha Franklin Burleson demonstrate the value of academic circles that are "So Simple, Even Students Can Do It."

4: The Respect Agreement

April 12, 2023 — Dr. Gaye Lang and panelists Danielle Czeszynsky and Yanitzie Oquendo show how establishing a "Respect Agremeent" with students can prepare them to better communicate with each other and with their parents at home.

5: I-Messages

May 10, 2023 — Dr. Gaye Lang and panelists Jake Shirley and Sofia Vaughan discuss I-Messages as a strategy for de-escalation, and how it has been implemented in a bilingual elementary school in Garland, Texas.

6: Family Group Conferencing

June 7, 2023 — Dr. Gaye Lang and panelists Laura Richard and Jennifer McCready introduce the concept of Family Group Conferencing which brings together family members in open dialogue to address and repair harm, while strengthening relationships and fostering accountability.