Social worker Sarah Anderson and Restorative Learning Program participant Robbie Blair. Photo courtesy of the Portland Press Herald.

Cheers to the Portland Press Herald in Maine for this article about the Restorative Learning Program, which helps expelled children get their education, learn to avoid the behaviors that got them into trouble, and even return to school.

The program is run by social worker Sarah Anderson.

“Often kids are spiraling,” she said. “We put the plug in the drain and try to build authentic, supportive relationships with each student. These kids see through people like it’s their superpower. They connect with people who are real with them.”

One of the children who was helped is Windham High freshman Robbie Blair, who was expelled from school for taking high blood pressure medication to get high. He is back in school, making A’s and B’s, being active in sports, and passing regular drug tests.

Social workers can play a major role in helping children in school overcome life’s hurdles. To learn more, visit the National Association of Social Workers’ “Help Starts Here” Schools and Communities Web page by clicking here.