Subject Area
Class Calendar Length
Year Long
Grade Levels
11, 12
Prerequisites
None
Seats Available
15
Class Schedule
Mon., Tue., Thu., Fri. from 1:35 to 2:25 pm
Dual Enrollment
3 college credits (American International College)
Course Summary
This course introduces the philosophy and practical strategies of Restorative Justice, aiming to transform mindsets and school habits. Students examine the systemic biases that contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline while learning the benefits of restorative over punitive discipline. Through active participation in “circles,” students experience restorative protocols firsthand. The course concludes with a participatory action research project where students evaluate and propose ways to make their own schools more restorative.
Key Outcomes
- Analyze systemic biases within traditional disciplinary models.
- Learn how to facilitate restorative circles and protocols.
- Design and present a school-wide restorative action plan.
Mass. State Standards
- RI.11-12.1-2: Reading Informational Text (Citing textual evidence and determining central ideas)
- W.11-12.1-2: Writing (Writing arguments and informative/explanatory texts)
About the Instructor
Jess Madden-Fuoco is a dedicated educator at Greater Egleston High School who has been teaching and leading since 1997. She holds a BA in History and a BS in Secondary Education from Boston University, as well as an MA in the Teaching of Social Studies from Teachers College, Columbia University; an MEd in Educational Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University; and a PhD in Education from Lesley University.
With 29 years of experience as teacher, an assistant school leader, and instructional coach, Jess recently completed her doctoral research on what it means to become restorative and what professional learning supports educators in becoming more restorative. She is a passionate advocate for school equity and instructional innovation, and she is committed to helping students and staff grow. Jess lives in Boston with her partner Bill and their two daughters.