Every day at HRS, we see perseverance in action. In our primary classrooms, it looks like a student taking a deep breath and trying again after a difficult math problem. It’s a student learning new words to describe big feelings. It’s a classmate offering kindness to someone who is having a hard day. In Middle School, perseverance shows up when a science experiment doesn’t go as planned, and a student reviews the data, resets, and tries again. It’s there when a student pauses midsentence, gathers their thoughts, and finds the reassurance to try again in answering the question of the day at assembly.

These moments of challenge are not setbacks. They are opportunities for growth. When students stretch, reflect, and try again, they build skills, and equally important, they develop resilience. Over time, steady practice transforms their relationship with learning and builds confidence. Students begin to see themselves as capable learners.

Our faculty intentionally create environments where this kind of growth can happen. Structured routines, thoughtful practice, and high expectations help students develop a healthier relationship with learning where challenge is normalized.

This year, the introduction of The Writing Revolution (TWR) has added another powerful layer to that growth. Behind it is the compelling idea that “Writing is not just a skill—it’s a vehicle for learning.” A fitting extension to Slingerland®, TWR fortifies the connection between language and meaning. Research shows that writing develops and strengthens the thinking process, and we are already seeing students become stronger thinkers as a result.

As we look ahead to the HRS United 2026 Auction, we celebrate this spirit of perseverance in our community. This year’s Fund-A-Need supports tuition assistance, which helps families begin and continue their HRS journey with stability and partnership.

Together, we are developing not only academic skills, but resilient, self-assured learners prepared to meet challenges with determination and confidence.

With gratitude,
Stacy Turner
Head of School