Re-engaging Disconnected Youth

Amy Vatne Bintliff is a teacher and researcher who has taught language arts and reading in traditional and alternative programs in Minnesota and Wisconsin. She is a trained restorative justice Circle Keeper and has developed a wide array of programming for students who struggle with school. A passionate advocate of human rights and multicultural education, she believes strongly in listening to the voices of adolescents.

«In 'Re-engaging Disconnected Youth', Amy Vatne Bintliff achieves that for which many in the education world are desperate: a seamless, integrated marriage of research-informed theory and on-the-ground, practical application. Writing from the trenches, opening space for the voices of her students, she offers an instructive series of snapshots of progressive, student-centered learning in action. In her vivid descriptions and her students' insightful reactions we find clear evidence that one does not need to water down transformative learning; that students will respond to high expectations; that restorative justice and multicultural education can be - must be - at the heart of authentically engaged learning.» (Paul Gorski, Assistant Professor, Integrative Studies, George Mason University; Founder of 'EdChange')
«Amy Vatne Bintliff has written a compelling description of the application of service learning and restorative principles, underscoring educational theory with the voices of youth and her fellow teachers. She provides ample evidence that the use of Circle in the curriculum, as a way to teach as well as to address conflict or harm, enhanced the educational process. More importantly, Circle helped the students and their teachers connect personally and professionally, providing for many of the students a safe and supportive learning environment such as they had never before experienced. The book is a great read, as Vatne Bintliff combines theory and story in a persuasive and clear way.» (Nancy Riestenberg, Prevention Specialist, Minnesota Department of Education)
«This book is an inspiring exploration of how teachers can build relationships with students that foster intellectual awakening and emotional growth. Disconnection and disengagement are all too common experiences, especially among marginalized and disadvantaged students. Amy Vatne Bintliff lovingly narrates a holistic journey of transformative education that deeply touches both students and