Abstract:
Mt. Richmond Special School reflects the richness of the cultural and learning diversity found in many New Zealand schools. Located in the heart of South Auckland, the school's 130 students represent a wide range of ethnic backgrounds. The students present a comprehensive range of intellectual, social, emotional, physical, sensory, mental health, and behavioural needs. The universal values in the Circle of Courage (Brendtro, Brokenleg, & Van Bockern, 2002) provide a uniting and progressive framework for growing a culture of reframing problems as challenges to restore broken bonds and build positive connections.