Grass Valley, CA — Nevada Union High School junior Indy Lau has completed a youth justice research project that is now being used to expand the Restorative Accountable Youth Solutions (RAYS) program in Nevada County.
Working under the mentorship of his uncle, Jamie Lau, a professor at Duke University School of Law, Indy’s research examines how stronger community engagement can improve outcomes for youth involved in restorative justice processes. One of the recommendations based off of his multiple findings is expanding the programs community engagement piece inside of the restorative plan. The expansion focuses on building partnerships between local businesses, schools, and community organizations to support students participating in restorative plans. The implementation of collaborative community engagement that unite young people, community representatives, and local business leaders to craft these restorative plans. These plans emphasize repairing damage, developing capabilities, and connecting young people with support services and positive opportunities within the community while giving back to the community.
“We’ve seen how restorative justice can transform students’ lives,” said Indy Lau. “My research showed that when local businesses, schools, and organizations join that process, students feel more supported, more accountable, and more connected. I’m excited that RAYS and I can work together and expand.”
RAYS, a student-led restorative justice nonprofit founded as an alternative to suspensions and punitive discipline looks to uses restorative practices and promote healing-centered accountability. They currently work with schools to support youth through peer mediation, accountability circles, and personalized restorative plans. The new initiative expands beyond school campuses to involve the wider Nevada County community.
The program is now seeking interest from local businesses, community groups, and educational organizations that would like to support students through mentorship, skills-based learning opportunities, guest workshops, or other forms of partnership.
The Community Engagement initiative will begin initial implementation this year, with program details and partnership structures currently being developed.
About RAYS
RAYS is a student-led alternative to suspension program based in restorative practices. We currently have RAYS programs at Bear River, Nevada Union and Silver Springs High Schools and Lyman Gilmore Middle School. Once referred to RAYS, our student team holds a RAYS circle for the student and creates their restorative plan. The student has 30 days to complete their plan with the support of a student supporter and staff champion.
All RAYS plans include at least one thing from each of the following four quadrants.
