A Correlational Study Examining the Relationship Between Restorative Practices and School Climate in Selected Elementary Schools in a Large Mid-Atlantic Urban School District
Punitive consequences are extensively utilized when dealing with school discipline. Recently, positive approaches to discipline, such as restorative practices, have been implemented in many schools to address school discipline concerns and to improve school climate. Restorative practices is a philosophy that focuses on building positive relationships by changing mindsets. This study took place in a large mid-atlantic urban school district. The goal of the study was to determine the relationship between restorative practices and school climate from the perspectives of school staff members who utilize restorative practices in their schools. A quantitative correlational research design was utilized for this study to examine the relationship between restorative practices and school climate. Findings from this study indicated a strong positive correlation between measures of restorative practice and school climate
