I want to let everyone know about two exciting events coming up this fall at the IIRP’s main campus in Bethlehem.
Our "Fall Intensive" is a four day event and is offered on two dates:
October, 17-20 or November, 14-17:
Click here for more info and to register.
If you want to learn more about restorative practices or get others excited about this new field one of the most powerful things you can do is to the see these practices in action in real life.
For years the IIRP informally set up visits to alternative schools and day treatment programs for delinquent and at-risk youth operated by CSF Buxmont – a member of the IIRP consortium of organizations. These schools operate wholly on restorative principles and all staff participate in professional development in restorative practices.
Visitors would sit in on restorative circles, observe how teachers manage their classrooms using informal restorative practices, participate in afternoon groups, and discuss with staff their process for handling behavior problems.
In my experience, after a few days immersed in watching teachers, counselors and young people in this highly restorative setting, visitors gained a visceral and practical understanding of the potential for using these practices in their own settings.
This is exactly what happens during the first two days of each Fall Intensive linked to above. On the first two days participants are immersed in one of the alternative schools we administer and get to see restorative practices in action with a challenging population of young people. We then follow this “immersion” with two days of professional development - “Introduction to Restorative Practices” and “Using Circles Effectively.”
We have found that following a two-day immersion in a highly restorative environment with two days of core restorative practices professional development makes a powerful four-day experience.
This event typically draws participants from around the US and the world. Many have remarked that the only thing better than the events themselves is the chance to have four days to talk and bond with others who are just as passionate as they are about restorative practices.
Also, if you are hoping to get others excited about restorative practices (whether they are colleagues or other leaders) the Fall Intensive is one of the best options we offer.
You can register at the links above or contact our office at (610) 807-9221.
Anyone who has questions or would like to discuss bringing larger groups of staff or leaders is also welcome to contact me directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
I hope to see you at the Fall Intensive!
Best wishes,
John Bailie
Director of Continuing Education
IIRP
