For two days, 37 people sat in a circle in a large classroom at the University of Maryland School of Social Work. These leaders, representing a diverse array of Baltimore schools and community-based organizations, worked hard to understand — and learned to implement — basic restorative practices, such as informal circles, virtue statements, and fair process. Shantay McKinily, PSC’s Executive Director, facilitated the two-day training using the International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP) official curriculum. The group made up of organizational and district leaders, community school coordinators, social workers, PSC coaches, and others. Together they journeyed through a process of sharing, questioning, disagreeing, authenticity and cohesion.
Baskets of candy were set out around the room and there were plenty of water and snack breaks. As important as it was to get through the content, just as important was taking care of oneself; the room felt comfortably packed but cozy as folks became more comfortable getting up and walking around, sharing lunches, laughter, and childhood memories.
Once these Baltimore leaders complete the first two days of training, they are eligible to practice these restorative approaches in their own organizations and communities. They may also choose to continue their education in the field and sign up for the second part of IIRP’s training, or choose to become facilitators themselves. All of these development trainings are aimed to nurture and grow positive climates by sharing knowledge and space with stakeholders who have the power to transform their own personal and professional communities.
