About
Shelby Demby is a passionate restorative educator, dedicating over 13 years of her career to youth violence prevention and transforming school environments. With a background in criminal and social justice, Shelby recognized the urgent need for alternative approaches to discipline that prioritize healing, accountability, and community-building.
Throughout her career, Shelby has worked within schools, collaborating with students, educators, and community stakeholders to implement restorative justice practices. Her approach emphasizes empathy, dialogue, and inclusivity, seeking to address the root causes of conflict and foster a culture of understanding and reconciliation.
Driven by her belief in the power of restorative justice, Shelby founded Why Restorative Justice to provide training, resources, and advocacy for schools seeking to weave restorative practices into their cultural fabric.
Shelby's work extends beyond the classroom, as she actively engages with policymakers, researchers, and activists to promote transformative change within the education system. Her efforts have not only helped reduce suspension rates and improve school climate but have also empowered students to become agents of change in their own communities.
As a restorative justice educator, Shelby remains committed to her vision of creating safer, more equitable learning environments where every student has the opportunity to thrive. Through her unwavering dedication, she continues to inspire others to embrace restorative justice as a transformative tool for social change.
In addition to founding WhyRJ, Shelby serves as the Principle Waymaker for Worth Justice and as a board member for Project Pave. When Shelby is not working she is enjoying the 300+ days of sunshine Colorado has to offer with her family.
Related Services
This WhyRJ team member is part of the following trainings and consultative services.
Restorative Justice in Neuro-affirming Spaces
Price
$850
Duration
3 Modules 9 Hrs
This training provides a collaborative space to work through and process how spaces, policies, structures and systems are intentionally created for students in Neurodiverse settings and programs: Affective Needs, SPED, MAB and other programs. Click for info and to register.
Intro to Restorative Justice Workshop
Price
$1,000
Duration
24 Credit Hours
WhyRJ's introductory training on the philosophy and practices of Restorative Justice in schools and our communities. Take this training online, on-your-own-time, or live in-person with a dedicated WhyRJ restorative facilitator. Click to get training descriptions and module topics.
