Restorative Practices for Disciplinary Cases

The term Restorative Practices describes an approach to healing, accountability and community building rooted in a set of values and principles which emphasize the importance of involving those most affected in any given situation, the inherent worth of all individuals and our interconnectedness. 

When a case of campus misconduct is reported to the Center for Community Standards and Accountability (CSA), it is evaluated for appropriateness for a restorative response. If deemed appropriate, and with the consent of all parties, the matter can be addressed via restorative process. The restorative process is focused on addressing the harm, promoting meaningful accountability, and cultivating healthy communities. 

You can read about example cases here, and can learn more about the stages of our process and the main methods we use looking below.

You've Received a Notice of Process Letter - What Comes Next?
Notice
When a Restorative Process through CSA is beginning, the person who allegedly caused the harm gets a letter inviting them to participate in an intake conversation.
Intake
In this private conversation, we ask about the situation to determine if it is appropriate for a restorative process. We also answer questions about our process.
Pre-Conferencing
The facilitators meet separately with the parties to understand their perspectives on the situation and help prepare them for next steps.
Facilitation
Once prepared, the parties have a direct or indirect encounter with one another in a Circle, Restorative Conference, or Community Conference.
Agreement
If the facilitated process is successful, everyone involved works together to write a Restorative Agreement/Accountability Plan which addresses the needs which have been identified.
Case Closure
Once an agreement is reached and signed, it is held by the Center for Community Standards and Accountability, and the conduct case is closed without creating a formal disciplinary record.
Follow Up
RP@P will follow up with all relevant participants to make sure that the agreement is being followed, and will support the parties in meeting their obligations.
Restorative Conferences
Restorative Conferences offer people who have caused harm and those harmed an opportunity to meet in a structured, secure environment. Participants can address harm, take accountability, build mutual understanding and/or negotiate restitution.
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Circles
Circles can be used in a wide range of settings, in response to a diverse issues. Circles are unique in their use of a talking piece, a centerpiece, and the structure of the conversation, informed by practices of various Indigenous peoples of North America.
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Community Conferences
Community Conferences offer community members, responsible parties and harmed parties (or their surrogates) an opportunity to come together and discuss a harm, its impacts, and how to make things right.
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