Grad Night Surprise: Ethic of Care and Restorative Justice

Abstract

Building trust and loyalty creates an ethical foundation in schools that welcomes openness and sincerity within the community. This case focuses on challenging disciplinary questions in which authentic and transformative leaders/principals, through critical self-reflection, awareness, and discipline, must explore the effects that teachers and students can have on the community as a whole. Troubling incidents at a Grade 8 graduation ceremony change the tone from one of celebration to that of bitterness. Potential implications of behavioral challenges from students and teachers are seen throughout this case which could negatively affect school culture. Principals must make decisions to affect positive outcomes.