"I Like You"

One of the best parts of our jobs is being able to make connections with students who typically don’t engage with people as much.

Last week, Jackie, one of our restorative justice facilitators was in the hallway in between two conflict resolution workshops. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of kids running to their next class, teachers trying to direct the flow of students and the buzz of friends talking with each other, Jackie bumped into a student who she had worked with last year during the conflict resolution workshops.

"Hi!” Jackie exclaimed! “How are you?”

The student responded, “I’m doing great! I remember those stories that you told us last year!”

Jackie said, “Well that’s wonderful. I’m so glad to see you’re doing well!”

The student replied, “I like you! You told us good stories,'“ and promptly ran off to the next class.

The power of storytelling is incredible- especially when we are able to spend time with students and youth who have not been shown in stories or in real life where different choices in conflict lead. It also reminds us that the relationships we are able to build in the workshops is absolutely imperative to helping students envision a new way of being in relationships and in communication.

Plus, for us as facilitators, it brings a huge smile to our faces and keeps us going through the really challenging days. We know that what we’re teaching is making a difference!