Building Justicia Together: Thriving Bilingual Classrooms Through Tier 1 Restorative Practices That Honor Community Cultural Wealth

Thriving bilingual classrooms are built through intentional, asset-based practices. This interactive workshop, expanding on a recent chapter co-authored by the presenter, introduces Tier 1 restorative practices grounded in Community Cultural Wealth to support culturally and linguistically diverse students. Participants will explore how proactive restorative circles (used as part of everyday instruction) cultivate belonging, honor students’ linguistic and cultural assets, and strengthen classroom relationships. Through modeling, small-group practice, and reflection, educators will engage with circle questions designed to surface students’ community knowledge and lived experiences. Participants will leave with practical strategies to foster justicia, reduce reliance on discipline, and sustain thriving bilingual learning communities.