Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Jim Jelinske to the Restorative Works! Podcast. 

Jim speaks with us about using restorative methods to address bullying that happens both in-person and online. Harm created by bullying has widespread effects, going well beyond the bully and the bullied. Restorative methods help us to understand the importance of the relationships we have to the people in our school and broader community. He tells the story of watching youth change their mindsets and behavior by using tools and strategies provided by a restorative framework. Acts of violence can be addressed with creative solutions that help youth take responsibility for their actions while also restoring the harm that was caused.

Jim asserts that through culture and common language, schools and other programs set expectations that help create and sustain restorative responses to bullying. Building an environment where students feel safe to disrupt bullying starts with the school culture. Training staff on restorative approaches extends the culture of safety and inclusivity needed for students to thrive.

Jim has spent over 40 years working in social services and the last 18 years running his business, Creative Education Services. Throughout his career, Jim has developed, trained, and directed programs for families and youth throughout the US.  He is currently the director of the Restorative Strategies Program in Dubuque, Iowa working with the police department and youth who have committed a first-time crime with their families. 

Tune in to hear more about Jim’s perspective on positive witnessing, methods to addressing cyber bullying, and more. Visit Jim’s website here for additional information about his book, presentations, and resources.