At a recent RJ World eConference, Danielle McGettigan, an esteemed high school educator and staunch advocate of Restorative Justice (RJ) from St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada, presented a study poised to reshape the way educators perceive and interact with students. Based on her ongoing M.Ed thesis at Memorial University of Newfoundland, McGettigan delved into the K-12 school experiences of incarcerated individuals in Newfoundland and Labrador.
The room was charged with anticipation as McGettigan began her session. Drawing from a phenomenological multiple case study framework, her research provided attendees with an unprecedented window into the lives of incarcerated individuals, a demographic that’s often relegated to the fringes of society. Through her systematic approach, McGettigan’s goal was to unveil the stories of her participants, shining a light on experiences that might otherwise remain obscured.
For McGettigan, the driving force behind this endeavor is relationships. Her teaching philosophy, rooted in the principles of self-awareness, authenticity, and empathy, seeks to foster genuine connections between individuals, regardless of their past actions or societal status. By showcasing the educational narratives of incarcerated individuals, she hoped to challenge prevailing stereotypes and empower educators to make more informed, compassionate decisions in their classrooms.
One of the standout elements of McGettigan’s presentation was her unwavering commitment to valuing and respecting the wisdom and insights embedded within her participants’ narratives. By listening to these stories, she argued, educators and stakeholders can glean invaluable insights about the systemic factors that may push young individuals toward paths that culminate in incarceration. Additionally, these personal accounts offer potential strategies for creating more inclusive, understanding, and restorative educational environments.
Amidst the plethora of statistics and research findings, it was McGettigan’s personal engagement with her subjects that left the deepest impression on attendees. She reiterated that beyond the data, these stories symbolized real-life experiences, dreams curtailed, and potential stifled. Yet, despite the often somber nature of the subject matter, the presentation was not without moments of hope. Many of the narratives highlighted instances of resilience, strength, and the innate human desire for redemption.
McGettigan also shared her achievement of being chosen as a presenter for the 2020 National Restorative Justice Symposium, a testament to her dedication and the significance of her research in the realm of RJ.
In conclusion, Danielle McGettigan’s session was more than just a presentation of findings. It was a clarion call for educators and stakeholders to adopt a more empathetic, informed approach to teaching. By understanding the experiences of those who have been incarcerated, educators are better equipped to create environments that foster understanding and prevent future incarcerations. In an era where the world grapples with issues of justice, equity, and inclusivity, McGettigan’s work stands as a beacon, illuminating the path forward for educators committed to truly making a difference.
