2nd annual TAG 'Justice in the Classroom' workshop

by Guest blogger on Feb 16 2011 Posted in Community voices

This guest blog post is from Hanako Franz of TAG Philly.

Teacher Action Group is working hard to get teachers organized.

Our next event is happening this Saturday, February 19, from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at 1910 North Front Street (Front & Berks). The Restorative Justice Committee will be hosting our second annual "Justice in the Classroom" workshop.

The workshop will address the importance of replacing punitive policies with restorative practices. We see a direct correlation between school climate and the amount of learning that is taking place in the classroom. If fights, disruptions, and suspensions are frequent, odds are that there is little learning taking place.

Additionally, with the looming massive budget deficit and the continuing Renaissance process, our schools are facing major cuts, increased class sizes, and teacher lay-offs. It is a crucial time for teachers to be organizing.  

Please join us on Saturday, February 19, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. to discuss alternatives to punitive discipline policies.  At the workshop we will:  

• Share challenges to and strategies for non-punitive classroom management and institutional change.
• Hear from Philadelphia public school teachers and students about concrete and successful peer mediation and restorative practices.
• Brainstorm ideas for advocacy and implementation.

Refreshments will be provided. Email TAGrestorativejustice@gmail.com to RSVP and with any questions.

TAG Philadelphia seeks to strengthen teacher voices in schools and policy decisions. While partnering with and empowering parent, student, and community groups, TAG is committed to fostering:

• school Transformation,
• environments where students and teachers can thrive, and
• community ownership and influence.

The TAG Restorative Justice subcommittee seeks to promote at the classroom, school, and district level practices that build mutual trust, respect, and cooperation between all members of the school community. We oppose punitive approaches to discipline that criminalize students while failing to reduce violence and conflict.

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