We Are Crew, Not Passengers: Creating Safe and Supportive Schools

Restorative Works!

In this special episode Claire de Mézerville López welcomes recent IIRP alumni, Matthew Leaf and Victoria Torres, to the Restorative Works! Podcast.

Matthew and Victoria are experienced professionals in education. They join us to share practical strategies and personal stories that highlight how restorative practices transform school culture. From greeting students at the door by name to creating intentional spaces for connection, Matt and Victoria reveal that fostering a sense of belonging isn’t about one single action—it’s “a restorative way of being.” They discuss how mutual respect, authenticity, and empathy help both students and educators thrive, and why separating “the deed from the doer” is essential in addressing mistakes without shame.

The episode also explores how educators can become “the greatest cheerleaders” for their students, invite families into the process, and model lifelong learning. Both guests share advice for graduate students and education leaders: listen to understand, remain curious, and never underestimate your power to make a lasting impact.

Matthew is the assistant principal of Crew and Culture at Four Rivers Charter Public School in Greenfield, Massachusetts, where he is also a founding faculty member. He received his Master of Science in Restorative Practices with a specialization in Education from the IIRP this July. Matthew and his wife are recently empty nesters who enjoy time with their dog and spending time outdoors.

Victoria is a dedicated school counselor practicing in Pennsylvania and also maintains a private therapy practice. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Cedar Crest College and a Master of Education in School Counseling from Lehigh University. She recently completed her coursework for a Master of Science in Restorative Practices with a specialization in Education, along with a graduate certification in facilitation for healing trauma from the IIRP. She and her husband recently celebrated their 12-year wedding anniversary and have two children; they enjoy spending time outdoors and exploring the world around them.

Tune in to hear how proactive and responsive circles deepen relationships, how consistent processes build trust, and why curiosity can be the key to understanding behavior rather than reacting to it.