Restorative Practices
Within Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS), restorative practices is a framework that emphasizes the value of relationships and repairing harm to build and sustain a positive learning and working space for students and adults districtwide.
Restorative Practices in MPS
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Restorative practices is a way of being that is rooted in indigenous wisdom and teachings and refers to all the things we do to build, maintain, and repair relationships.
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When being restorative, we honor cultures and identities, ensure that all voices are valued, and foster meaningful connections among all school community members.
- This mindset naturally creates cultures where everyone is accountable and supported in striving to be their authentic selves socially, emotionally, and academically.
| Restorative Questions |
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| Introduction: How are you doing today? What's good? |
| Share the story: What happened? |
| Explore the harm: How have you been impacted? |
| Repair the harm: What could you have done differently? |
| Reach an agreement: What are you willing to do to make things right/move forward? |
| Restorative Responses |
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| Observation (When...) |
| "I feel" statement |
| Needs (...because I need...) |
| Request (concrete action step) |
| Example: "When I see you playing in the hallway, I feel nervous that someone is going to get hurt because I need to keep students safe. Please stop touching one another and start walking to class." |
Consultations and Trainings
View our upcoming training opportunities, then email us to enroll.
You can also request a consultation for your school or department using the button below. Tell us a bit about your goals—from staff overviews to tailored professional development—and our team will reach out to discuss the best path forward for your community.
More Information
Download the MPS Equity Guidebook
If you have any questions, please contact restorativepractices@milwaukee.k12.wi.us or (414) 252-0220.