School-Based Restorative Justice Programs

Brief Description

School-Based Restorative Justice (SBRJ) programs are a community-based programs that aim to address bullying and conflict in schools. The program supports and respond to the needs of all youth so they can live in safer school communities; helping children and youth resolve conflicts, develop leadership abilities, build positive relationships and improve their academic achievements.

Goals

The main goals of these programs are:

1. Prevention: Education and awareness activities to promote healthy relationships and leadership;
2. Intervention: Support and advocacy for youth to help repair harm caused by conflict, bullying harassment, violence and crime in schools; and
3. Reconnection: Support and facilitate youth in achieving reconnection with their schools, families and community.

Clientele

Children and youth in elementary and high school, from the ages 7 to 18. Schools can become involved in this program based upon the program being active in their community and the school being referred to the program because of a demonstrated need or gap in services.

Core Components

SBRJ programs use circles, conferences and peer mediation to resolve conflicts (i.e. fighting, bullying, theft, vandalism, family and relationship issues). SBRJ staff may provide additional school-based activities and support such as presentations, workshops, group programming on bullying academic skills and empowering youth. These programs can be accessed by all ages and also employ a holistic model to facilitate opportunities for young people to access appropriate community resources, enhance the skill base of the young people (and their family as appropriate), and promote healthy lifestyle choices.

Implementation Information

Some of the critical elements for the implementation of this program or initiative include the following:

• Organizational requirements: SBRJ program agencies are responsible for overall coordination and administration of SBRJ services.
• Partnerships: SBRJ programs continuously work to improve professional relationships with governments and external agencies. Their networks include a broad range of partners who come from community, government, corrections, policing, and other funded agencies.
• Training and technical assistance: The Community Safety and Well-Being Branch offers ongoing support in the areas of contract obligations, program development and support or guidance if requested.
• Risk assessment tools: Limited information on this topic.
• Materials & resources: Limited information on this topic.

International Endorsements

The most recognized classification systems of evidence-based crime prevention programs have classified this program or initiative as follows:

• Blueprints for Healthy Youth Development: Not applicable.
• Crime Solutions/OJJDP Model Program Guide: Not applicable.
• SAMHSA's National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices: Not applicable.
• Coalition for Evidence-Based Policy: Not applicable.

Gathering Canadian Knowledge

Canadian Implementation Sites

School-Based Restorative Justice programs in Saskatchewan are operational in Broadview, Grenfell, La Loche, Pinehouse, Saskatoon, and Yorkton.

Main Findings from Canadian Outcome Evaluation Studies

No information available.

Cost Information

A total of $296,630 is invested in School-Based Restorative Justice programs annually.

References

There is no Canadian reference available at this time.

For more information on this program, contact:

Integrated Justice Services

Community Safety & Well-being

Strategic Partnerships

600 - 1874 Scarth Street

Regina, SK S4P 4B3

Telephone: 306-798-1057

Email: Jeffrey.Dudar@gov.sk.ca