Student Re-Entry and Support Process

At El Cerrito Middle School, we believe that mistakes are opportunities for learning and growth. When a student returns from an at-home suspension, our goal is to provide support, strengthen connections, and help the student successfully transition back into the school community.

Upon returning to school, students will meet with a member of our student support team, which may include a counselor, administrator, dean, or other designated staff member. During this meeting, we will:

• Review the circumstances that led to the suspension
• Reflect on the impact of the student's choices on themselves and others
• Revisit our SOAR expectations of Safety, Ownership, Achievement, and Respect
• Identify strategies and supports to promote future success
• Develop a plan for a positive return to the classroom

Following the re-entry meeting, students may participate in additional support services based on their individual needs. These supports may include counseling check-ins, restorative conversations, goal setting, academic support, social-emotional learning, behavior coaching, or other interventions designed to help students thrive.

Our approach is rooted in restorative practices and relationship-building. Rather than focusing solely on consequences, we focus on helping students learn from their experiences, repair relationships when appropriate, and remain connected to their school community.

At El Cerrito, we believe every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and move forward. Our re-entry process is designed to provide students with the support, accountability, and encouragement they need to make positive choices and achieve success.