Date of Award
2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
School of Education
First Advisor
Debra Espinor, EdD
Second Advisor
Keelan LoFaro, EdD
Abstract
‘One caring adult can make a difference in a student’s life.’ This phrase or some facsimile of it permeates the world of education. This research explored the stories told by students about their experience with discipline in a small, rural alternative school that is implementing restorative practices and how they perceive relationships in relation to the practices. This research used qualitative narrative inquiry, interviewing self-selected students about their lived experiences. The research was grounded in Restorative Justice theory, Belonging theory, and Trauma-informed Practices theory. This qualitative narrative inquiry explored the stories of lived experience of Native American students, who have lived experience of both traditional discipline and restorative practices discipline in a school setting. Findings contribute to the literature on restorative practices in schools, expanding the exploration of the lived experience of Native American students.
Recommended Citation
Swagger, Jessica J., "It Begins with Relationships: Exploring Discipline and Belonging Through the Narratives of Native American Students" (2026). Doctor of Education (EdD). 280.
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/edd/280