Restorative Practices

Restorative Practices at Bruce Vento Elementary

At Bruce Vento, we strive to build strong connections and a sense of belonging with everyone in our school community. This is why Restorative Practices are an essential part of everything we do.

We focus on creating connection and understanding among students through morning circles in the classroom. We also use restorative circles to support staff, families, and community members in repairing relationships and fostering open communication. By utilizing a talking piece, we ensure that every voice is heard and valued in the space.

Restorative Practices aren't just something we talk about at Vento—they’re a reflection of who we are.

For more information or questions, please contact Gretchen Ray-Jensen at gretchen.ray-jensen@spps.org.

 

Meet Gretchen Ray-Jensen
Restorative Practice Program Coordinator

Gretchen holds a Master’s degree in Family Science and a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. Since beginning her career in education in 1999, she has been passionate about the power of positive relationships to not only support social-emotional learning but also to boost academic success.

Gretchen believes that when students feel seen, heard, and valued, they thrive in the classroom and beyond.

Outside of school, Gretchen and her husband are the proud parents of four sons. The entire family shares a love of football, and fall weekends are filled with spirited debates (and a little friendly trash talk) over whose team really is the best. Football season in the Ray household is serious business, but always full of fun and family rivalry.