RAYS of Change Documentary: Southern California Premiere

Southern California school leaders and educators are invited to a special screening of Rays of Change, a feature-length documentary showcasing a groundbreaking, student-led alternative to suspension program that’s transforming school discipline and supporting student well-being.

Hosted at the Orange County Department of Education Conference Center, this event highlights how restorative practices and peer leadership can provide effective, evidence-based alternatives to exclusionary discipline and alcohol and other drug (AOD)-related suspensions.

Rays of Change tells the story of RAYS (Restorative Accountable Youth Solutions) — an innovative student-led alternative to suspension program developed in Nevada County, CA. RAYS empowers trained student teams to lead restorative circles, create individualized restorative plans, and provide peer-to-peer accountability and support — helping students stay connected to their school community while taking responsibility for their choices.

Since its launch, the RAYS model has supported hundreds of students and is now being recognized statewide as a promising framework for schools seeking alternatives to suspension and ways to address AOD-related incidents through education and connection rather than exclusion.

Following the screening, attendees will participate in a Q&A session with RAYS leaders featured in the film to discuss implementation strategies, outcomes, and opportunities for replication in Southern California schools.

This free event is open to administrators, school counselors, and educators interested in restorative practices, AOD prevention and intervention, and equity-based alternatives to traditional discipline.