MD SB68

Maryland State Department of Education must develop a comprehensive plan for establishing Restorative Practices Schools by July 1, 2026, consulting with experienced educators and national organizations on best practices

"Restorative practices" is redefined as a communally and culturally responsive, relationship-focused discipline model emphasizing prevention, accountability, and repairing harm through voluntary participation

The comprehensive plan must include a framework for identifying qualified restorative practice coaches, model training materials for schoolwide implementation, and standards for school designation

Performance metrics must track improvements in disciplinary actions (referrals, suspensions, expulsions, arrests), student absenteeism, teacher turnover, mental health indicators, and school climate

County boards choosing to establish Restorative Practices Schools must use the state-developed comprehensive plan; the Department must report to the Governor and General Assembly by December 1, 2026