about Shari..
In my work I am proud to have trained and mentored hundreds of teachers, administrators and school staff in Restorative Justice Practices nationwide. I have provided consulting services to district administration teams to support strategic planning for systemic Restorative Justice Practices implementation in schools, addressing issues of high rates of suspension, expulsion, and disproportionality of discipline for students of color and students with disabilities. I have also engaged hundreds of youth and adults in restorative processes to strengthen relationships and build community, and to repair those relationships when wrongdoing has occurred. I am qualified to help communities, schools and school districts in all stages of training, mentoring and implementation.
Restorative Justice Practices
Restorative Justice Practices (RJP), which evolved out of Restorative Justice, is an alternative to exclusionary and punitive responses to crime and wrongdoing. RJP is primarily a proactive approach, emphasizing the strengthening of relationships and the building of community through the use of Circle processes, and the development of leadership, communication and conflict resolution skills. RJP also includes processes by which individuals are encouraged and equipped to take responsibility for their actions and be accountable to those they have harmed when wrongdoing has occurred.
Indigenous cultures from which RJP has drawn important insight, recognize that when a person commits wrongdoing it is an indication that they have lost sight of their relationships and their connection to their community. Restorative Justice Practices, therefore, work proactively to strengthen relationships and nurture connections among and between all members of a community. School communities that are doing this work naturally see less misbehavior, and when misbehavior does occur a strong foundation has been established from which to address the resulting harm. Children and adults care more about how their behavior affects people they have a relationship with. They are more motivated to make amends and are more likely to look for ways to prevent conflict in the future.
Shari is Circle. In the work we do daily within our system, Shari brings the wisdom of restorative practices, the presence and care of a restorative practitioner, and the passion and positivity of a restorative educator. She resonates the power of circle and embodies trust in the process. Shari inspires us to see what is and believe in what can be. Her presence with our staff is a socio-cultural corrective experience that invites authentic presence and attunement for all accepting of the invitation. Personally I always feel more whole and myself when I get the opportunity to be in her presence… Shari is Circle.
Trainings
I ofter in depth trainings for all members of the school community including administrators, faculty, support staff, community partners, families and student leaders. Below is the Suggested Sequence for Whole School ‘roll-out.’’
Restorative Leadership for Administrators
Introduction to Restorative Principles and Practices
Introduction to Circle Practice: Part of a 2-day series
Deepening Circle Practice (Levels 2 & 3)
Restorative Response to Harm/Restorative Discipline
Facilitating Restorative Conferences
Empowering Restorative Student Leaders
“Shari Garn is an inspiring and skillful teacher and facilitator. In my long career I've worked with many facilitators and circle leaders. Shari stands out as someone who truly embodies the essence of this work. She lives what she teaches, and does so with an infectious, joyous energy that empowers group members to have exactly the experiences they need to have, and to learn what they need to learn.”
– Amos Clifford, Founder | CEO
Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs Author
Your Guide to Forest Bathing: Experience the Healing Power of Nature
