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Why
Restorative Justice?

Because relationships are vital.

WhyRJ logo
WhyRJ's restorative arch for minor to major conflicts in schools

Rooted in the past
For a better present
And a more equitable future

Restorative Justice practices and principles empower schools and communities to build stronger, more meaningful relationships. 

Borne from indigenous philosophies of restoring and repairing harm, RJ is a millenia-old philosophy that puts relationships first.
Why Restorative Justice (WhyRJ) connects these indigenous practices to foster a healthy community of compassion.

Why Restorative Justice's trainings and services offer in-depth and collaborative programs to create a new way of approaching discipline in schools and communities.

  • Live, virtual, and in-person trainings.

  • Ongoing consultation to facilitate the growth of/embed restorative justice practices and principles.

  • Formal intervention training for overcoming major conflicts.

  • Code of conduct collaborative rewrites to foster an equitable environment.

Community Impact

Here's the data from real schools and communities that have woven Restorative Justice Practices into their culture.

45 out of 45

students surveyed felt an increase in sense of belonging and safety at school after a 4-year implementation of restorative practices.
from Education Research Alliance, New Orleans 2021

35% in-school
15% out-of-school

reduction of student arrests when implementing restorative practices schoolwide.
from National Education Association's neaToday

30% decrease

in discipline based on race after 3 years of implementing restorative justice practices.
from Journal of Educational & Psychological Consultation

92% of principals

believe restorative practices improved teacher-student relationships and 100% believed RP improved school climate.
fromWestEd Justice & Prevention Research Center

Practices for Deepening
Relationships and
Strengthening Accountability

We're dedicated to providing practical strategies for building authentic relationships, learning through conflict, and cultivating a culture of interconnectedness and accountability. These practices empower youth and adults to center their own value and the value of community.
We offer in-person, online, and asynchronous workshops for educators, youth, community leaders, and more.

Intro to Restorative Justice Workshop (SELF-PACED)

Intro to Restorative Justice Workshop (SELF-PACED)

Price

$1,000

Duration

7 Modules 24 Hrs

WhyRJ's introductory training on the philosophy and practices of Restorative Justice in schools and our communities. Take this training online and on-your-own-time.

Individual or Organizational Coaching

Individual or Organizational Coaching

Price

$200/hr

Duration

Hourly

After-training follow up or additional help for individual practitioners or teachers. A great way to brush up on skills or coaching on specific situations.

Formal Restorative Justice Training (SELF-PACED)

Formal Restorative Justice Training (SELF-PACED)

Price

$850

Duration

4 Modules 8 Hrs

Deepen your practice to address major harm utilizing the formal restorative justice framework. Take this training online and on-your-own-time.

Team Members

Shelby Demby

Shelby Demby

Co-Founder/Director

With a background in criminal and social justice, Shelby Demby has dedicated over 13 years of her career to youth violence prevention and transforming school environments.

Kristen Noble

Kristen Noble

Co-Founder/Director

Kristen is a restorative justice facilitator, instructor, and coach. Her 15 years of experience are devoted to solving conflict, building equity and inclusion, and advancing cultural humility.

L'Tomay Varlack-Butler

L'Tomay Varlack-Butler

RJ Facilitator

L'Tomay is a visionary restorative equity educator, executive coach, and social worker driven by a deep commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and the transformative power discourse.

Testimonials

Teal R., Principal, Orchard Avenue Elementary School in Colorado

The partnership we have built with Shelby over the past five years has been transformative to our school community. Shelby helped our team understand and implement restorative practices and a culture of care resulting in significant increases in our school culture data on feedback surveys from students, parents, and staff. Shelby is knowledgeable, professional, and truly a pleasure to work with. She delivers high-quality professional learning and ongoing consultation that supports teachers and our administrative team in the use of restorative practices at all three tiers.

Amy B., Restorative Process & Practices Coordinator, 

Ricks Center for Gifted Children in Colorado

Kristen Noble is forward thinking in her ability to reflect on the powerful role Restorative Practices has in the evolution of the human experience. Her vast experience in a variety of settings made her the perfect thought partner for my own shift from the pressures of traditional punitive approach to Restorative Practices as an educational leader and teacher. I can count on Kristen to mentor how repairing harm can be a tool for enhanced well-being and self-concept for the diverse identities reflected in our young population. 

Elyse W., Neural Education, Earth & Life Sciences Teacher, Restorative Justice Facilitator, Ossining Middle School in New York

Implementing restorative justice practices from 'Why RJ' has revolutionized our school environment. As a teacher, I've seen firsthand how RJ fosters empathy, accountability, and community in resolving conflicts. The training and resources provided by 'Why RJ' have been instrumental in equipping us to create a more inclusive and supportive educational setting. I highly recommend 'Why RJ' to any school looking to implement effective, compassionate discipline practices.

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