Perspectives on Restorative Justice From Special Education Teachers of Black Students

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 19
  In Roundtable Session: School-Based Surveillance of Children of Color

Abstract

Literature that centers disability within the context of restorative justice in schools is limited. Further, as restorative justice has been recommended in order to address the disproportionate rate at which students of color are suspended, it is important to assess whether or not such efforts are appropriate. This interview study was conducted in order to gain a better understanding of how restorative justice is perceived and used by special education teachers of Black students. Teachers’ insights highlighted the ways in which both staff and students could be better supported within the school’s restorative justice program. This work offers implications for how to better support teachers in meeting the needs of students with disabilities in regard to restorative justice.

Author

• Cierra Presberry, Michigan State University