| dc.description.abstract | How might I support educators to adopt a proactive mindset and develop the skills to
respond to conflict restoratively? How might I empower students to take ownership for, and
work toward, resolving conflicts that occur in school focusing on restoring and valuing
relationships, with decreased adult dependence and increased personal independence?
I would describe myself as a peacemaker. As the youngest of three children from a
family with many internal struggles and challenges, many of my memories involve responding to
uncomfortable home situations by trying to solve the issues among my family members, a habit
which followed me into adulthood. Through experience, I’ve learned that listening, rather than
speaking, can often be a more effective strategy for building relationships and restoring harm in
most social situations. When I listen to understand, and not to respond, I sincerely hear what my
family members, friends, colleagues, and students really need in order to move forward and/or
heal in a given situation. In my personal and professional relationships, I’ve noticed that truly
listening, and being heard, appears to be the key to developing relationships with greater clarity,
mutual respect, and deeper commitment.
I believe, passionately, in building relationships from a deep-rooted, sustainable
perspective. Personal connections are the bridge between maintaining relationships and
honouring commitment. From my past teaching and current administrative experiences in
education, when I support students’ relationships with each other, I feel that I am laying the
foundation for students to think restoratively in their interactions. | en_US |
