HI HR44

Encourages the Department of Education, complex areas, and charter schools to implement school-wide restorative justice practices in Hawaii's public and charter schools.

Identifies restorative justice as a values-based approach that builds relationships, creates dialogue opportunities, repairs harm, and transforms conflict to create equitable learning environments.

Notes that studies show restorative justice practices can reduce problem behavior, improve school climate, and increase student achievement, attendance, and graduation rates.

Contrasts restorative justice with traditional suspension and expulsion methods, which studies show do not improve school safety and contribute to lower graduation rates and increased juvenile justice involvement.

Directs certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Chairperson of the Board of Education, Superintendent of Education, and Chairperson of the State Charter School Commission.