River’s Story:
A Theft Scenario
Scenario
River is an 8-year-old Indigenous boy who enjoys drawing but doesn’t have many art supplies at home. One day after class, River saw a brand-new pack of colourful markers in another student’s desk. He waited until no one was looking and put them in his backpack.
The next day, the student, Harper, was very upset that her special birthday markers were missing. She told the teacher, and later, the markers were found in River’s bag.
River admitted he took them. He said he thought they were beautiful and didn’t think anyone would notice. River has now been charged with theft, but instead of going to court, the school and River’s community have decided to hold a restorative justice circle.
This is a chance for everyone to talk about what happened, share how it made them feel, and work together to find a way to make things right.
Characters in the Circle
River – The student who took the markers
River’s Uncle – A caregiver who teaches River about honesty and respect
Harper – The student whose markers were taken
Harper’s Parent – Who helped Harper deal with her hurt feelings
Teacher – Who helped solve the problem
Circle Keeper – The Program Facilitator to help guide the conversation gently and fairly
Elder or Knowledge Keeper (If Available) – Who opens the circle with a cultural teaching
“In our traditions, we know that when something is taken, trust is also taken. But we also believe in giving people a chance to make things right. We sit in circle to listen with our hearts and to help each other grow.”
— Anonymous Elder