RAYS stands for Restorative Accountable Youth Solutions and is an alternative to suspension. RAYS is not a punishment.
RAYS may be offered to students who have made poor choices and are wanting to hold themselves accountable. The student will sit in a circle with their peers who are part of the RAYS team and will make a plan for the student. The team will ask thoughtful questions to get to know the student and then create a plan based on the student’s interests and what will be best for them.
Steve Hansen, Restorative Practices Coordinator and co-director of RAYS with his colleague Marlene Mahurin states his reason for developing RAYS was because of his background in Restorative Practices (“essentially the science of the community and relationship building), he also says,
“Marlene and I created [RAYS] as an alternative to suspension. It has been long-documented that suspension does not have the desired effect, and I’ve always disliked the “othering” of students who make poor choices,” He continues, “I’m much more of a fan of bringing kids in and working with them to address issues rather than pushing them away and doing something punitive to them.”
Hansen also states the reason why students should choose RAYS, is because suspension “separates the student from school, teachers, and peers, and offers little is any insight into what may be root causes of negative student behavior.”
However, RAYS allows students to make amends and repair any harm done to those impacted by the actions, “It allows them to give back to the school community in a way that is not punitive, and offers support in the areas of mental health, substance use, and academics.” Hansen says.
RAYS is also a huge benefit for students, as they will feel “supported” and not punished.
“The RAYS Team develops compassion and empathy, and they become much more open-minded and less judgemental when they meet and support students from all walks of life. For both students going through RAYS and students on the RAYS Team, relationships are strengthened and community is built.” Hansen explains.
Senior and RAYS Team Member, Gabby Gerster, who was one of the first students at Bear River to pilot the program, agrees.
“I’ve seen this program give students an opportunity at a second chance, and it’s really beautiful to watch people blossom just because they felt understood. I really do see so much good in whoever goes through our circles, and it’s such a joy to bring that out of them!” Gerster explains.
RAYS has not only effected those going through it, but those who are on the team.
“I love RAYS, I’ve seen it positively benefit so many students over the last three years, and I’m so excited to get to spend one more year positively affecting my school community!” Gerster explains.
Interested in joining the amazing RAYS team? Talk to any team member to see if the team is a good fit for you, then reach out to Steve Hansen, [email protected], or Marlene Mahurin, [email protected], for any additional information.
One last quote from Gerster, “whether you’ve been given the option to go through the program instead of suspension, or if you’re an underclassman looking for a way to get connected on campus. It’s such a collaborative process on both sides of the circle that brings people closer together.”