Publication Date

Fall 12-22-2025

Document Type

Action research project: USD users only.

Degree Name

MA Higher Education Leadership

Department

Leadership Studies

Abstract

In this action research study, I explored how the Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) at Southwestern College can create a sense of belonging among student-parents pursuing higher education goals. Drawing from the literature on community colleges and restorative justice, my study was guided by the following research question: How can student support programs like the Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) use restorative practices to build community and a sense of belonging among single student-parents?

Guided by Kolb's (1984) Experiential Learning Cycle, I used the Restorative Justice Community Building Circle framework to facilitate dialogue for two groups of single-student-parents. I used pre- and post-CARE circle surveys to measure participants' connection to the campus and the program after participating in a community building circle. Survey findings revealed that nearly 50% of participants (n=15) felt more connected with their peers after participating in the CARE Circle. Ultimately, my research shows how restorative justice practices can provide a sense of belonging for student-parents in community colleges which can potentially help increase completion and retention rates.

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