Restorative School Culture Program
Implementing restorative processes like circles, conflict-resolution programs, and peer-led practices to respond to incidents that cause harm in schools-encourages behavior between students and teachers that is supportive and respectful, holds individuals accountable for their behavior, encourages repair of any harms caused to others, develops conflict resolution skills and creates a sense of community, belonging and acceptance.
Watch this video from Alberta Education to learn about the many benefits of restorative practices in schools.
After completing a successful trial of the implementation of restorative practices within two schools in central Alberta, the RRDRJ program has acquired funding from the Alberta Law Foundation to support the expansion of this program to additional interested schools!
The Regional Red Deer Restorative Justice (RRDRJ) team is inviting schools across Central Alberta to participate in our province-supported Restorative School Culture Program launching April 2025. This whole-school initiative equips students and educators with the tools to build community, respond to conflict, and repair harm in a proactive, inclusive, and non-punitive way.
Bring the Restorative School Culture Program to Your School
What Your School Receives
- Weekly onsite support from trained restorative facilitators
- Professional development for staff
- In-class demonstrations and student circles
- Conflict response conferencing (instead of suspensions)
- Parent engagement & community workshops
- Tailored school action plan & data tracking
- Full access to all program materials and resources.
Program Outcomes
Reduction in disciplinary referrals and suspensions
More family and community engagement in education
Increased student accountability and empathy
Improved classroom relationships and school climate
Schools in Wolf Creek or Red Deer Catholic Divisions committed to strengthening student well-being, restoring relationships after harm, and preventing future conflict. All grades welcome.
Contact us to find out about how to get your school enrolled in this program!
Who Should Apply?
Frequently Asked Questions
about the Restorative School Culture Program
What is the Restorative School Culture Program?
It’s a proactive, whole-school approach that helps schools build stronger relationships, reduce discipline issues, and handle conflict constructively using restorative practices.
How much does it cost to participate?
The program is FREE for participating schools, thanks to funding from the Alberta Law Foundation.
What’s included in the program?
Schools receive weekly in-school support, staff PD, classroom circle facilitation, conflict resolution conferencing, family engagement sessions, and custom action planning.
Who can participate?
Any school in the Wolf Creek or Red Deer Catholic school divisions. Elementary, middle, and high schools are welcome. Individual classrooms may also apply.
What kind of time commitment is involved?
The program is designed to integrate with existing school routines. We ask for 1–2 planning meetings, 1 circle/week per class, and staff participation in a PD session.
Do teachers need to lead the circles?
No. RRDRJ facilitators will demonstrate and co-lead circles at first, and then support teachers who wish to continue them independently.
How do we measure success?
We track changes in behavior referrals, suspensions, attendance, and stakeholder feedback. Schools also receive custom reports on program impact.
How do we sign up?
Email RRDRJ to schedule an information meeting and complete the application form. Early interest is encouraged due to limited space.
The Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Restorative Justice Program at Regional Red Deer Restorative Justice offers self-referred, non-contact restorative support for people impacted by gender-based harm.
Our work is restorative, not crisis-based. We offer space for understanding, meaning-making, and accountability when it is safe and appropriate.
Gender Based Violence Program
