About Us

“Teachers who put relationships first don’t just have students for a year; they have students who view them as ‘their’ teachers for life.” ~ Justin Tarte

Lead Consultant

Meet Karen Gray

Karen Gray earned her B.A. in Elementary Ed. 1-8 and M.ED. in Educational Leadership from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.  Mrs. Gray received her certificate as a Restorative Practice Specialist at the University of Colorado.  In addition, she is a certified Life Coach specializing in Relationships.  She is currently enrolled in K-12 Ed.D. at UL Lafayette and is interested in studying how Restorative Practices help shift and shape school climate and culture.

Mrs. Gray worked in underserved communities for 17 years as a Teacher, Behavior Interventionist, and Administrator.  Outside of administration, she served as an SEL specialist for two years, working with inner-city schools in South Chicago, Phoenix, AZ, South Carolina, and Pine Bluff, Arkansas.

Mrs. Gray and her team support several school districts in shifting their climate and culture to a safe, nurturing, and trusting environment centered on relationships and respect.  She is partnering with Concordia Parish, St. Landry Parish, Mobile County, and the Missouri School Board Association in Missouri.  They have successfully supported schools in implementing practices that change schools and, most importantly, the lives of scholars.  Seeing success in upwards of 40% reduction in out-of-school suspensions and reducing expulsions by 50% in year one implementation and 100% in year two.

TESTIMONIALS

What People Are Saying

Mrs. Gray’s years at our school brought learning and excitement for all.  She addressed issues, kept kids in class, and implemented restorative approaches.  Mrs. Gray cared deeply, made positive changes, and inspired success for students and teachers alike.

Annette Taylor

ISS Facilitator

As an Administrator, Karen Gray empowered students academically and individually, promoting ownership and conflict resolution.  She introduced restorative justice practices and character education sessions, resulting in decreased referrals and suspension rates.

Sarah Gross

Assistant Principal

I met Mrs. Gray 2 years ago when she was Assistant.  Principal.  She excelled with high-poverty populations, implementing restorative practices and proactive behavior strategies.  Her targeted feedback led to a remarkable turnaround in student behavior.

Ashley Brooks

Former 4th Grade Teacher, Assistant Principal

Karen prioritized students’ academic and social success.  With restorative practices, teachers build healthy relationships, creating a safe environment.  Students stayed engaged exceeded expectations, and discipline referrals decreased significantly under her leadership.

Neal Alfred

ISS Facilitator

Mobile Office Number

Call: (337) 351-5423

Working Hours

Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm