For most of the past 30 years, the youngest students at Hamlin Robinson School have entered the classroom each fall and found someone who would become one of their most beloved teachers and advocates – Pat Massoth.    

Ms. Massoth will retire at the end of this school year and say goodbye to daily life at HRS. She will be deeply missed! We’re taking this opportunity to spotlight her life and stellar career. 

Early Life 

Born in Seattle, Pat moved frequently during childhood. Her father’s career in the U.S. Navy meant attending many different schools from elementary through high school. These experiences taught her what it feels like to be a new student in a new classroom, not knowing anyone. She learned firsthand the importance of making students feel welcome and at home in their classroom from day one.

Pat graduated from high school in the Seattle area and became the first in her family to attend university, studying at the University of Washington. While working a summer job as a waitress at the Ocean Shores Inn, she met the love of her life, Gary Massoth. 

Becoming a Teacher 

After Pat and Gary married, his military post immediately took them to the Philippines, where Pat took her first teaching job. Following another move, she paused her career until returning to Seattle. Wanting to make a bigger impact on students who struggled with reading, she decided to enroll in summer Slingerland training at Hamlin Robinson School. In 1996, Pat was hired at HRS – and the rest was history! Over the decades, Ms. Massoth became legendary for the impact she has made on the lives of students.   

Why She Teaches 

Pat always wanted to help people succeed. Members of her own family grew up with dyslexia and never had the benefit of instruction that could help them learn, thrive, and feel smart. The Slingerland Approach® and teaching at HRS gave her the skills and tools to make an impact. 

Pat’s words of wisdom for teachers: 

• You have to like the kids and accept them for who they are. 

• The kids are so smart!  

Pat’s words of wisdom for students: 

• No one is perfect. Just do your best. 

• You are learning for YOU, not for your teacher.  

• Believe in yourself – you have the tools to succeed. 

For decades, Pat has found joy in watching students learn and grow. She loves hearing updates from former students and running into them out and about. But—Pat reminds her former students –always introduce yourselves. Former students often look very different from the time they were in primary grades at HRS!  

What’s Next 

After retiring in June, Ms. Massoth plans to travel, play golf, and enjoy life. She will miss the HRS community and teaching – we wish her all the very best! 

Former students can connect with Ms. Massoth during HRS Alumni Day on May 28. Don’t miss it – RSVP at hamlinrobinson.org/alumni!