Rep. Watson Coleman Introduces Bill to Advance Restorative Justice in Schools

Washington, D.C. (Wednesday, November 20, 2024) — Today, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) introduced the Commission on Advancing Restorative Justice in Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 2024. 

The bill would authorize the Secretary of Education to establish an interagency commission, in close collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services, to promote restorative justice practices in elementary and secondary education.

The commission would set guidelines to measure student participation in restorative justice programs like mediation and counseling; codify practices that create equitable learning environments; and provide recommendations for improving mental health support in schools.

“We know definitively that classroom discipline does not fall evenly across racial and economic lines,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “Young Black students are much more likely to be punished for similar behavior as their peers. This perpetuates problems instead of solving them. Sending student after student down the school-to-prison pipeline is indefensible. We must take concrete steps to establish practices that support students when they need support, and guide our students when they need guidance. This bill is an important first step to creating the kind of learning environment where every student, regardless of race, religion or economic background, has the freedom to thrive.”

“Restorative justice is not just a principle—it’s a path forward for healing and empowerment in our schools,” said Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson  (IL-01). “I am proud to join Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman in introducing the Commission on Advancing Restorative Justice in Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 2024, a transformative piece of legislation that will give educators the tools and resources to address conflict, reduce suspension rates, and build a positive, inclusive school culture. This bill will create safer, more supportive environments for our students, where discipline is approached with understanding, respect, and a focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment. As a co-sponsor of this vital legislation, I am committed to ensuring that every child can thrive academically and socially, free from the cycle of exclusion and criminalization.” 

“Restorative justice isn’t just about addressing harm—it’s about creating the kind of schools where kids and young folks feel seen, supported, and set up to succeed,” said Rep. Summer Lee (PA-12). “Too often, Black and brown students are disproportionately punished, pushed out, and left behind, deepening the inequalities that hold our communities back. This bill is about breaking those cycles and building school environments where every student has the tools and support to thrive. I’m proud to stand with Congresswoman Watson Coleman in introducing this vital legislation that centers equity, empathy, and opportunity in education.”

“We have a responsibility to our young people to provide them with the support and care they need to succeed at every step of their journeys in education. Fulfilling it starts with ending the disparate punishment students of color face throughout their lives, and turning instead to the inclusive, empathetic, and equitable path of restorative justice. It’s my privilege to stand alongside my friend, Congresswoman Watson Coleman, to build safer environments for our students that empower them to thrive in academics and their personal lives,” said Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke  (NY-09).

“Black and brown students deserve an equal opportunity to thrive in schools  — but unfair disciplinary practices continue to criminalize and push out students, especially Black girls,” said Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) “This affects their academic growth, mental health, and future chances of success. I am proud to work with Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman to correct these injustices and improve learning environments for students of color.”

“Students of color have been historically disadvantaged by the American education system, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and mistreatment that is beyond unacceptable,” said. Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13). “In my life, education was the catalyst that carried me from homelessness to being a member of the US Congress, and I will continue to support any and all efforts to provide the same American Dream to the children in my district and across the country.” 

“Girls Inc. thanks Congresswoman Watson Coleman for her invaluable partnership in this legislation, which will help schools create environments that are supportive for all children,” said Dr. Stephanie, J. Hull, President and CEO, Girls Inc. “As the oldest continuing girls’ leadership organization, Girls Inc. knows students thrive in partnership with teachers who support their emotional and behavioral growth through strategies like restorative justice. We applaud her leadership on this issue and look forward to supporting this work going forward.”

The bill is co-sponsored by Reps. Summer Lee (PA-12); Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10); Jonathan Jackson (IL-01); Rashida Tlaib (MI-12); Shri Thanedar (MI-13); Yvette Clarke (NY-09); and Robin Kelly (IL-02).

The full text of the bill can be read here.