Hamlin Robinson School prides itself on supporting communities of students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences so they have an equitable opportunity to succeed academically, and, by extension, in life beyond school. Literacy is an equity issue, one that informs the daily work at HRS. Through our academic program and the Learning Center at Hamlin Robinson School's resources, we hope to expand access to literacy intervention not only for enrolled students, but for the broader Washington community.

Dyslexia and language-based learning differences do not discriminate. 

To fulfill our mission, Hamlin Robinson School is committed to addressing the legacy of structural racism in the history and teaching within schools such as ours. We know there is more to do to help our community reach a more equitable future, and we are determined to embrace diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging as essential to a robust education.

Our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging commitment and the resulting actions will be ongoing and include our entire community. 

What Does Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Mean at HRS?

Diversity is achieved through the individual people within our community. Each person brings with them various identities, including race, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, religion, socio-economic status, to name just a few. Through different lived experiences, each individual contributes unique perspectives for problem solving, though processes, and decision making. This diversity of thought results in better decisions and ultimately, better outcomes for students.

Equity is represented through our culture. It is our practices, policies, and ways of doing things. Rules that govern culture often are written and unwritten, spoken and unspoken. Within our culture, we want to name and discuss the policies and practices that can create barriers to access, engagement, and participation. Once unintentional barriers are identified, work can be done to remove them. This work ultimately strengthens equitable practices and enhances culture.

Inclusion is represented in our programming. Do the diverse individuals within our community see themselves included in the curriculum, in the stories we share, in the conversations that happen? Are matters of importance making it onto meeting agendas? Do our students see themselves and their identities represented by others in the classroom, the faculty and staff, the school leadership? The school embraces the importance of an individual feeling like they are "not the only one."

Belonging is created through having a diverse community, equitable practices, and inclusive programming. People know that this is a community that values them. When people belong, they will more fully engage, share ideas and take risks. Through active engagement and a sense of belonging and value, individuals and the community can thrive.