Video Review: Beyond Zero Tolerance: Restorative Practices in Schools

Produced by the International Institute of Restorative Practices and Safer Saner Schools.

Beyond Zero Tolerance explores the impact of restorative practices in school discipline. Using footage from actual discipline situations and commentary from students, administrators and students, the documentary suggests how restorative practices can be used to create positive changes in schools and in student discipline.

One featured administrator says that restorative practices present a real solution to student discipline. Throughout the film, teachers and administrators discuss the need to develop an atmosphere to allow students to learn and grow. Part of how this is done is by helping the students understand the consequences of their behaviour, learn skills for coping with problems and getting along with others, and be a part of the solution. Some of the teachers interviewed describe differences in student reactions to restorative disciplinary actions as opposed to the older system of referrals. Others talk about the improvement in their relationships with their students.

Student comments offer another view of how the changes in discipline policy have created a more positive environment in the school. The ideas of being respected by the adults and learning to respect each other permeate their comments. Some of the students talk about learning to become friends with people with whom they had been fighting. Others talk about the difference between their behaviour under a more punitive system and the restorative system. For some, the change meant getting into less trouble and feeling like a real part of the school.

Sprinkled throughout the film is footage of actual discipline situations that help drive home the ideas. Adults are seen setting appropriate boundaries for students while offering care and support. Students interact with each other and their teachers to understand why behaviour was harmful or inappropriate and what should be done to make things right. Students correct and support each other as well. In one scene of a circle, a young woman thanks her classmates for making her feel welcome and inviting her to share her thoughts and feelings. This was something that she was not accustomed to.

This 27 minute video is helpful tool for demonstrating the relevance of restorative practices to aspects of life beyond criminal justice.  Beyond Zero Tolerance was produced by the International Institute of Restorative Practices and can be purchased for US$25 at http://www.iirp.org/booksvideos/index.html#bzt.


Lynette Parker
March 2006