Youth Anew®

Youth Anew is a dynamic program dedicated to fostering safe, supportive, and thriving school communities by implementing restorative practices, social-emotional learning (SEL), and violence intervention strategies. Currently serving Austin Independent School District (AISD) campuses from grades K-12, Youth Anew works alongside educators, students, families, and community partners to create sustainable solutions that enhance student well-being, reduce conflict, and build a positive school culture.

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Key Program Initiatives:

Youth Ambassador Program

Youth Anew empowers students through the Youth Ambassador Program, which is active on multiple campuses. This initiative equips student leaders with restorative practices and conflict resolution skills, positioning them as peer mentors and credible messengers within their schools. By fostering leadership and accountability, the program strengthens student relationships and promotes a culture of respect and understanding.

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Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) & Restorative Justice Training

To support schools in creating safe and inclusive learning environments, Youth Anew provides SEL support tailored to the unique needs of each campus. Our team trains educators and staff in Restorative Justice (RJ) practices for whole-school implementation, ensuring that conflict is addressed through dialogue, accountability, and healing rather than punitive measures. By integrating SEL and RJ into school policies and daily interactions, we help build stronger student-teacher relationships and reduce disciplinary incidents.

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Violence Prevention & Intervention

Youth Anew collaborates closely with ATX Peace, a community violence intervention initiative, to address violence that impacts students both on and off campus. By bridging the gap between schools and community safety efforts, we work proactively to curb violence before it escalates, providing students with resources, mentorship, and intervention strategies that keep them engaged in school and out of harm’s way.

 

Restorative Practices & Conflict Resolution Services

As part of our commitment to fostering healthy school communities, Youth Anew facilitates various restorative circles and conferences that promote healing and reconciliation:

• Community-Building Circles – Strengthen school culture by fostering open communication, trust, and mutual respect among students and staff.

• Conflict Circles – Provide structured, facilitated discussions to resolve disputes, repair harm, and rebuild relationships in a constructive way.

• Family Group Conferences – Engage families in the restorative process, ensuring that students have the support needed both at school and home.

 

Therapeutic Support & Justice Advocacy

Youth Anew recognizes the importance of mental health support for students. We have licensed therapists available on campuses, ensuring students receive counseling and emotional support to navigate personal and academic challenges. Additionally, our Restorative Justice Legal Advocate serves as a liaison between the justice system and the community, helping students and families navigate legal matters without providing legal representation. This advocacy ensures that students receive fair treatment and the necessary resources to stay engaged in their education and personal growth.

 

Impact & Commitment

Youth Anew is more than a school-based program; it is a movement for change that ensures students are seen, heard, and supported. By equipping schools with the tools for restorative justice, social-emotional learning, and violence intervention, we create pathways for academic success, emotional well-being, and community empowerment.

At Youth Anew, we believe that every student deserves a second chance, a supportive environment, and the opportunity to thrive. Through our partnerships, innovative programming, and commitment to restorative practices, we are transforming schools into spaces of healing, growth, and possibility.

For more information on how Youth Anew is making a difference in AISD and beyond, visit [insert website link].

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