Our Mission
The Nurturing Inclusive Community Environments (NICE) team uses a culturally responsive framework that emphasizes relationship‑building, accountability and equitable conflict resolution over punitive discipline.
Origin Story
NICE was developed in response to the growing need for healthier ways to address conflict in schools. Grounded in restorative principles and community-centered approaches, the program was created to help schools shift away from punitive models and toward practices that strengthen communication, relationships, and collaboration among all stakeholders. NICE continues to expand its reach as more school communities recognize the value of restorative approaches.
Vision
NICE envisions school communities where diversity is celebrated, voices are uplifted, and students are empowered to lead with confidence and compassion. By working with all stakeholders to identify growth opportunities and by educating the community on conflict resolution, social-emotional learning, and restorative practices, NICE aims to cultivate environments where nonviolence, equity, and connection thrive. The long-term vision is to expand the program to additional regions and create sustainable, peaceful school cultures.
NICE Director
Brings extensive experience in leading and structuring the NICE Program. Serves as the primary point of contact responsible for ensuring the successful and faithful implementation of Restorative Practices within a safe and supportive environment.
Wicile Gee
NICE Assistant Director
Brings 11 years of youth development experience with 5 years of direct restorative practices experience. Responsible for implementing the NICE mission on the ground level, working with and in collaboration with stakeholders internally and externally. The NICE Assistant Director supervises as well as performs the duties of Restorative Practitioners to a lesser extent.
Shayaun Pakizegi
Administrative Operations Manager
Supports the Executive Director by overseeing the organization’s administrative functions and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. Manages scheduling and coordination of meetings, maintains internal systems and processes, and provides operational support that strengthens the implementation and impact of WOVEN and the NICE Program.
Danna Pastran
Restorative Practitioner Tier 1
Brings over 13 years of experience in youth development and 8 years of expertise in Restorative Practices. Provides a range of restorative services, including mediation, peer mediation, and facilitation of restorative circles. Acts as a dedicated student advocate, actively engaging families and community partners to promote holistic development. Delivers staff training and education, leads curriculum development and implementation, and oversees the review and approval of restorative circles. Responsible for implementing after-school restorative circles and ensuring accurate completion of tracking documentation.
Wilene Joseph
Restorative Practitioner Tier 2
Provides direct support to students and staff through professional development, restorative circles, conflict resolution, mediation, and student advocacy, all through a restorative lens. Maintain data and reports through trackers and promote the NICE mission and standards. Holds Master's level and trained by Kay Pranis.
Moohanie Balkaran & Sera DuBois
NICE operates under the umbrella of WOVEN (We Oppose Violence Everywhere Now), a New‑York‑based nonprofit dedicated to ending violence in our lifetime. WOVEN believes engaging youth is key to eliminating violence, combining restorative practices, conflict resolution, mental‑health awareness and art activism. By equipping the next generation with resources and creative tools, WOVEN works to dismantle the foundations of violence and build a healthier society.
WOVEN Mission
Become Part of Our Team
Join a community dedicated to healing, connection, and positive change. At NICE, we cultivate a supportive and collaborative work environment where every team member is valued, empowered, and encouraged to grow. If you’re passionate about restorative practices, youth advocacy, and building stronger school communities, we’d love to have you with us.
Explore current opportunities on Indeed and take the next step in making a meaningful impact.
