I begin the first section of the book by introducing restorative justice, providing background about its development, and summarizing current conversations in the field. My aim is to begin our journey with an orientation to how restorative justice in schools has developed, the debates about best practices and questions about its implementation, and gaps in the research on its potential. Over the last two decades, the use of restorative justice has grown considerably in schools, partially in response to increasing awareness that punitive systems have negative consequences for students and school communities. Its implementation, however, has been varied and highly contextual. As I summarize current question in the field, I therefore highlight that even as much research has explored its potential to impact certain in-school measures – attendance, school climate, behavioral concerns – there is still considerable conversation around best practices and how it is linked to important developmental outcomes.