Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Bianca Johnson to the Restorative Works! Podcast.

Bianca joins us and shares her introduction to restorative justice through a pilot diversion program that instantly resonated with her values. Her story highlights how relationships built in the community can open the door for meaningful engagement and real change within institutions. Bianca shares a moving story of a stolen car, a juvenile offender, and a powerful moment of healing and accountability that shows what’s possible when we center dialogue and compassion over punishment. This episode also explores the importance of proactive restorative work—building relationships before conflict arises. Bianca shares how students and staff in her schools now seek out restorative conferences and circles, showing the impact of cultivating a relational culture.

Bianca is the family engagement and restorative justice coordinator at Charlottesville City Schools. She also works as a restorative justice facilitator with Central Virginia Community Justice, which provides a restorative justice diversion program. Through her work at City Schools and in the greater community, she helps create healing spaces for individuals and families impacted by harm. Bianca also completed professional development with the IIRP, informing her own training and facilitation to support both the school and greater community in relationship building and conflict resolution.  Passionate about her work, Bianca is committed to strengthening relationships and promoting healing.

Tune in to hear more of Bianca’s insight into what true community engagement looks like and the signs that show it's working: trust, empowerment, and people stepping into hard conversations with openness.