The Joy Roots Coaching Framework: The Path to J.O.Y.

The Joy Roots Coaching Framework is a transformative, multi-phase approach designed to embed the principles of the J.O.Y. Factor into the fabric of a school community. Our process is grounded in the belief that authentic change begins with adults, and that educators must engage in the "me" work before they can effectively lead the "we" work. By cultivating adult self-awareness and self-regulation, we create the conditions for a school culture that is restorative, justice-oriented, and centered on the power of youth.

Phase 1: The Inner Work (Adult Self-Awareness)

This foundational phase focuses on the individual educator, a crucial first step in building a truly safe and supportive environment. Coaching sessions during this phase are designed to help teachers, leaders, and staff members understand and regulate their own emotional responses, implicit biases, and personal connections to social justice issues.

• The "Me" Work: We facilitate one-on-one and small-group coaching focused on personal reflection. Activities include exploring personal narratives, identifying emotional triggers, and building the skills of mindful self-regulation.

• Embodying the "O": The goal is to cultivate an Optimistic (open mind & open heart) mindset. Coaches guide educators to approach challenging conversations with curiosity rather than defensiveness, and to see students' behaviors not as personal affronts but as valuable data about their needs.

• Culturally Responsive Practice: We help adults recognize how their own cultural background and experiences influence their perception of students and families, and we provide strategies to bridge potential cultural gaps.

Phase 2: The Collective Work (Community Building & Relational Trust)

Once adults are engaged in their own self-work, this phase shifts the focus to the collective. We move from individual reflection to building a collective culture of empathy, trust, and shared responsibility. This phase is critical for establishing a truly restorative school climate.

• The "We" Work: Coaching here focuses on building authentic relationships among staff, students, and families. We facilitate community circles, restorative justice training, and collaborative problem-solving sessions that emphasize shared humanity.

• Activating the "J": We work with leadership teams to review and revise school policies and practices through a Justice-oriented lens. Coaching helps identify and dismantle systemic inequities within the school, ensuring that disciplinary policies and academic expectations are fair and equitable for all students.

• Restorative Practices: The coaching provides a framework for implementing restorative circles and practices, moving away from punitive discipline toward a model of accountability, repairing harm, and reintegrating individuals back into the community.

Phase 3: The Student Work (Youth Empowerment & Action)

This final phase is the payoff of the work done in the first two. With a foundation of self-aware adults and a culture of trust, the coaching empowers students to become active leaders and co-creators of a more just and equitable school community.

• Activating the "Y": Coaching ensures the school becomes truly Youth-Centered. We support educators in creating student advisory boards, student-led circles, and opportunities for youth to take ownership of their learning and their school’s culture.

• Amplifying Student Voices: We help teachers design projects and curriculum that empower students to research and act on issues of social justice that matter to them. Coaches provide guidance on how to facilitate student-driven initiatives, from community projects to advocacy campaigns.

• Social Justice Orientation: Students become active participants in their own personal and social growth. They not only understand the concepts of justice and equity but are also given the tools and support to apply these principles in their daily lives and within their school community.