What is restorative justice in relation to SRO responsibilities?

Restorative justice, in the context of School Resource Officer (SRO) responsibilities, is fundamentally about repairing harm caused by wrongdoing through inclusive processes that involve dialogue among all affected parties. This approach emphasizes understanding, accountability, and reparation rather than merely punishing offenders.

By facilitating conversations between the victim, the offender, and the community, restorative justice encourages empathy and a sense of shared responsibility. This method aligns well with the SRO's role in fostering a safe and supportive school environment. It addresses the root causes of behavior, promotes healing, and strives to re-integrate the offender into the school community in a constructive manner.

This contrasts with options focused solely on punishment or removal, which can exacerbate issues and fail to address the underlying problems. Restorative justice encourages collaboration and helps students learn from their mistakes, ultimately contributing to a healthier school culture.