Joy Roots is a training and consulting collective focused on equity-centered social and emotional development and restorative practices.

While social and emotional learning (SEL) and restorative justice (RJ) have grown in popularity across the education landscape, far too many SEL and RJ efforts are focused solely on behavior management and compliance rather than self exploration and community healing. Many of these programs place most of their emphasis on students changing their behavior and little to no focus on the learning environment that adults create. These deficit-centered approaches to student engagement are counterproductive in promoting healthy identities and perpetuate false narratives for many BIPOC students.

At Joy Roots, we support leaders and staff in creating inclusive learning environments that foster safety and belonging for all community members.