Our Approach

At the heart of everything we do is The Re-Approach Model — a triangle with a heart at the center and three core components:

Approach it with E.A.S.
Expectation. Accountability. Support.

Each point of the triangle represents one of these powerful principles. Together, they create the foundation for healthy relationships, strong culture, and sustainable change. The triangle is held together by Connect, Communicate, and Commit — the relational glue that keeps everything aligned.

The Re-Approach Model

  • Clear, consistent, and values-aligned expectations are the vision we set. They shape direction, provide purpose, and give people something to grow into.

    We don’t lower expectations to be relational — we raise support to meet them.

  • Accountability is where ownership meets opportunity. It’s not about punishment — it’s about reflection, responsibility, and realignment with shared values.

    Accountability without relationship feels like control. Relationship without accountability breeds entitlement.

  • Support is the practical and emotional scaffolding people need to grow. It’s how we walk with people — not for them or around them — equipping them to take the next step.

    Support doesn’t soften expectations — it strengthens people to meet them.

  • At the center of Re-Approach is a heart — the symbol of compassion, relationship, and humanity. It reminds us that the how always matters. Even when we’re holding the line or calling for more — we lead with love.

  • Connect. Communicate. Commit

    These are the lines between the points

    • Connect to build trust.

    • Communicate to create clarity.

    • Commit to foster consistency.


Testimonials

Working with Neil at Re-Approach was the boost I needed! I received three personal and customizable leadership coaching sessions that helped me both professionally and personally. The insight and care that Neil and the Re-Approach Team takes is one of the many reasons I would recommend this resource to others. Don't delay in your team's or personal development, contact Re-Approach today!

— Kelsie, Non-Profit Director, DC127

The re-approach training encouraged me to slow down and focus more on listening before responding when working with students and staff. 

It impacted my approach by making me more intentional about building relationships and guiding reflection. 

Our conversations over the summer were productive and filled with the re-training of our minds. We were presented with new ideas and opportunities to explore this school year. We have immediately adopted so much of what we learned from our Re-Approach training.

— Ernesto Ortiz 
Assistant Dean of Discipline, High School
Lincoln Leadership Academy Charter School

My name is ShaNora Rhodes, and I serve as the Lower School Principal at Cornerstone Schools of Washington, DC. This is my second year in the role and my fifth year at the school. I have noticed a significant change in our school community since fully implementing restorative practices. Although we are still improving, we have established shared language, expectations, and practices such as circles and restorative conversations. The high accountability and high support framework has shaped my approach as both a professional and a person. It also aligns with my faith, as it reminds me of God's restorative nature, which is rooted in reconciliation and grace. Partnering with Neil Ray has enhanced our experience because of his ability to coach, offer practical solutions, and model aspects of restorative practice in real-time. I recommend restorative practice because it is an eternal investment. 

— Shanora Rhodes, Lower School Principal at Cornerstone Schools of Washington DC