When students misbehave, understanding the problem behind their actions can make all the difference in the effectiveness of teacher response. Teachers and students sometimes view the same behaviors differently. When students break school rules, teachers consider the behavior a problem. But for the student, that behavior is often a solution to some…

Restorative practices are an effective alternative to exclusionary and punitive discipline. In this approach, students confront their unacceptable behavior and assume responsibility for it in processes that are supportive rather than demeaning. Restorative processes range from formal practices, which require training, preparation and time, to…