Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Glen Williams and Lan Huynh to the Restorative Works! Podcast. This series of episodes highlights the work of restorative practitioners in the Wichita Public School District, the largest school district in Kansas, and their commitment to the large-scale implementation of restorative practices across their district. Claire is joined by co-host IIRP Director of Continuing Education Instruction Beth Smull. Beth plays a large role in supporting the Wichita project by overseeing professional development experiences and training.

 

Lan and Glen offer practical advice for educators looking to integrate restorative practices into their classrooms and communities. Hear valuable insights on navigating resistance, aligning initiatives with existing frameworks, and prioritizing proactive approaches to relationship building with students, teachers, and parents. Through intentional conversations and data-informed strategies, Lan’s and Glen’s schools are nurturing, thriving, and inclusive environments where every voice is valued.

Glen, a Wichita native, is the principal of White Elementary School. He has experience working in mental health and has held the positions of program director, teacher, and assistant principal. Glen earned a bachelor's degree in organizational management and leadership through Friends University, a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Southwestern College, and a master’s degree in school leadership from Baker University. Glen recognizes that his value is not defined by his title, but by how his title allows him to positively impact those he serves as he supports them in reaching their full potential.

Lan is an elementary peer consultant in the Wichita Public Schools district. Her role supports first and second-year teachers through listening, coaching, and consulting based on each teacher’s individual needs. Lan immigrated from Vietnam to Wichita in 1980 and faced many obstacles while adapting to the culture and learning the language through her early elementary years. Teachers and mentors guided her during her youth as she navigated the challenges. Lan’s passion for elementary education comes from her desire to positively impact students in the same way teachers impacted her in the past.

Tune in to learn more about Lan’s and Glen’s perspectives on using data to support implementation and combat misconceptions around restorative practices.