What Are The Most Effective Ways To Integrate Restorative Circles Into A Tiered System Of Support For Students Who Have Experienced Trauma, And How Can I Use Data From Our School's Social-emotional Learning Screener To Identify Which Students Would Benefit Most From This Approach?

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Integrating restorative circles into a tiered system of support for students who have experienced trauma, using data from a social-emotional learning (SEL) screener, can be structured as follows:

1. Tiered System of Support Structure:

  • Tier 1 (Universal Support): Implement school-wide restorative practices, such as weekly community-building circles in every classroom. These circles focus on proactive community building and social-emotional skill development.
  • Tier 2 (Targeted Support): Provide small group restorative circles for students identified as needing more support, focusing on specific skills like emotional regulation or relationship building.
  • Tier 3 (Intensive Support): Offer one-on-one or very small group restorative sessions for students with severe trauma, tailored to their individual needs.

2. Using SEL Screener Data:

  • Identify At-Risk Students: Analyze SEL data to find students scoring low in areas like self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
  • Consider Additional Factors: Look at absenteeism, behavioral issues, and teacher insights to complement SEL data.
  • Monitor Progress: Use follow-up SEL screenings, behavior reports, attendance records, and feedback to assess the impact of restorative circles.

3. Implementation and Training:

  • Staff Training: Provide professional development on restorative practices, trauma-informed care, and facilitating circles.
  • Cultural Responsiveness: Adapt circles to reflect students' diverse backgrounds and experiences.

4. Monitoring and Adaptation:

  • Track Effectiveness: Use metrics like reduced incidents, improved grades, and student feedback to evaluate the program.
  • Flexible Approach: Adjust the approach based on outcomes and student needs, possibly modifying circle frequency or focus.

5. Sustainability and Support:

  • Build a Support Team: Train staff and establish a leadership team to guide the process.
  • Involve Parents: Engage families to extend support beyond school.
  • Address Resistance: Use incentives and demonstrate positive outcomes to build support among staff and students.

6. Cultural and Responsive Practices:

  • Ensure circles are inclusive and respectful of students' cultural backgrounds.

7. Evaluation and Scaling:

  • Start with pilot programs, gather feedback, and scale based on effectiveness and support.

This structured approach ensures a comprehensive, data-driven method to support students with trauma, integrating restorative practices effectively within a tiered system.