SPED 363 The Vibe Check: Restorative Classrooms That Work

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Explores restorative and relationship-centered approaches to classroom management that promote belonging, equity, and emotional safety. Focuses on how educators use social-emotional learning (SEL) competencies, collaboration, and inclusive strategies to create positive learning environments for all students. Integrates movement, creativity, and the arts as vehicles for engagement and community building. Emphasizes practical applications of restorative circles, conflict resolution, and proactive classroom systems that help every learner thrive.

Prerequisite: Acceptance into the Bachelor of Applied Science in Elementary Education Program, or instructor approval.
Maximum number of credits course can be taken for: 3

Student Learning Outcomes:

Explain how social, emotional, and cognitive development influence behavior, motivation, and classroom climate.
Apply restorative practices, SEL programming, and culturally responsive strategies to support safe and inclusive learning environments.
Design classroom routines and interventions that build positive relationships, reduce conflict, and enhance engagement.
Incorporate the arts and physical movement as tools for self-regulation, collaboration, and active learning.
Collaborate with families, colleagues, and community partners to sustain restorative and inclusive school cultures.
Reflect on professional growth and educator social-emotional competencies that contribute to equitable, restorative classrooms.

Content Outline

Foundations of Restorative and Relationship-Centered Practice
- Understanding the connection between social, emotional, and cognitive development
- Exploring how these domains influence behavior, motivation, and classroom climate
- Core principles of restorative practices and community building in schools
Building Inclusive and Emotionally Safe Learning Environments
- Applying SEL frameworks to support belonging and engagement
- Implementing culturally responsive and trauma-informed strategies
- Establishing norms that promote respect, empathy, and shared accountability
Designing Proactive Routines and Interventions
- Creating classroom structures that prevent conflict and encourage collaboration
- Developing restorative responses to misbehavior and harm
- Using relationship-building routines to enhance motivation and connection
Integrating Arts and Movement for Engagement and Regulation
- Using creative expression and physical activity to support self-regulation
- Incorporating the arts to build empathy and strengthen relationships
- Designing active learning experiences that foster collaboration and joy
Collaboration with Families and School Communities
- Partnering with families to reinforce restorative values and SEL at home
- Working with colleagues and specialists to sustain inclusive practices
- Engaging community partners in promoting equity and well-being
Reflection and Professional Growth
- Reflecting on personal social-emotional competencies as an educator
- Assessing growth in empathy, communication, and restorative practice
- Sustaining a restorative mindset to support equitable, thriving classrooms