Document Type
Doctor of Education Capstone
Original Publication Date
2024
Client
The Alliance for Unitive Justice (AUJ)
Date of Submission
May 2024
Abstract
This research study examined the efficacy of the Unitive Justice Education (UJEd) program on school-wide practices in Hopewell City Public Schools (HCPS). The UJEd program developed by the Alliance for Unitive Justice (AUJ) serves as a unifying alternative to conventional disciplinary approaches. An abundance of research shows exclusionary punitive systems have created inequitable experiences for students, particularly children from historically marginalized groups (Alexander, 2020; Kendi, 2019; Morris, 2018). Through a critical theory lens (Freire, 2017) coupled with a mixed methods approach, the researchers analyzed the HCPS discipline data and staff perceptions. Implementing the UJEd program in HCPS secondary schools holds promise for improving school culture, student behavior, and engagement. Although there is a notable decline in the discipline data for secondary schools, not all student groups benefited from these outcomes. The researchers offer recommendations for policy, practice, and implications for future research. Analysis of the data highlights the importance of relationships, reflective listening, and a shared vision in driving the success of the UJEd program, affirming its positive impact on school practices and climate.
Rights
© The Authors