HI SR117

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 to community building and conflict resolution that repairs harm, transforms conflict, and creates equitable learning environments.

Notes that studies show restorative justice 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 indicate do not make schools safer and contribute to lower graduation rates and increased juvenile justice involvement.

Requires transmission of certified copies to the Chairperson of the Board of Education, Superintendent of Education, and Chairperson of the State Charter School Commission.