FAMILY HANDBOOK
MISSION
Hamlin Robinson School ignites the academic and creative potential of students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences.
VISION
The world-class educational program at Hamlin Robinson School is a catalyst for students to discover the joy of learning within a rich, comprehensive school experience.
CORE VALUES
Respect | Responsibility | Purpose | Perseverance
EQUITY STATEMENT
The Hamlin Robinson School community strives to ensure each student and their family has access to the supports they need within an inclusive environment that recognizes and honors all aspects of identity. We aspire to create an equitable environment for each student, family, faculty and staff, and all members within our community where everyone thrives and knows they belong. We are committed to this journey which requires continual self-reflection, vulnerability, intentionality, and accountability from each of us.
Update: August 1, 2026
WHO WE ARE
Hamlin Robinson School uses a multisensory structured language approach in helping students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. HRS is a non-profit 501(c)(3) school governed by a Board of Trustees and accredited by the Northwest Association of Independent Schools (NWAIS). The school is approved by the State of Washington’s Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) and is a member of the Washington State Federation of Independent Schools (WFIS), the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), and the Association of LD Schools (ALDS).
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
Hamlin Robinson School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, or other legally protected status in admission of otherwise qualified students or in providing access to the rights, privileges, programs, or activities generally available to all students and their families. Similarly, the school does not discriminate in hiring or employment practices on the basis of these characteristics. HRS implements policies related to learning differences as appropriate to support the school’s mission statement.
DIVERSITY STATEMENT
Hamlin Robinson School broadly defines diversity as an existing variety of characteristics within the population, including racial, ethnic, religious, gender identity, sexual orientation and socioeconomic backgrounds, physical and intellectual abilities, skills, talents, and life experiences, which add richness and depth to a community. Our school recognizes and serves the diversity inherent in children with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences, preparing them to be confident, compassionate members of society.
PRIVACY POLICY
HRS will properly value and protect any information entrusted to us about our parents and students. It is our policy that:
• HRS will collect only information about parents and students which is necessary and relevant.
• HRS will not disclose information to other parties unless parents have agreed to such disclosure.
• HRS will strive to ensure information about parents and students is kept accurate and up-todate.
• HRS will use appropriate controls to ensure information is kept secure and is only viewed or used by the proper personnel.
• HRS will comply with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards when protecting parent and student information.
• HRS holds our employees, vendors, contractors, suppliers, and trading partners to be in compliance with these policies.
HAMLIN ROBINSON SCHOOL GOVERNANCE
Hamlin Robinson School is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization governed by a Board of Trustees. Our tax ID is 91-1344121. The trustees are volunteers and include current parents, alumni parents, professional educators, community members and friends of the school. The primary role of the Board is to hold the school’s mission and future “in trust.” The Board provides strategic direction and fiscal oversight for the school. The Head of School is the sole employee of the Board. For a roster of the HRS Board of Trustees, please visit the school website. HRS welcomes participation for those interested in school governance.
INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM OVERVIEW
At the core of Hamlin Robinson School’s mission and success is our educational program, which is a full curriculum including: language arts, math, science, social studies, technology, art, music, physical education, health, and library. Opportunities for growth, creativity, and expression are valued components of our curriculum. To learn more about our curriculum, visit our website at www.hamlinrobinson.org.
ACADEMICS:
Class Placement
Teachers meet in teams at the end of the school year to discuss student placement. Taken into consideration are: social and emotional needs, strengths and academic growth, diversity, learning style, teaching style, and the strengths and challenges of friendships within the peer group.
Testing + Evaluations
Student achievement is evaluated on an ongoing basis through a variety of measures. Visit our website for more information about assessments.
Progress Reports + Conferences
Students receive progress reports three times each year: in November, March, and June. Parent/ guardian and teacher conferences are scheduled three times each year: a pre-conference in September before school starts, and conferences in November and March. Additional conferences are scheduled as needed for individual students. HRS encourages all parents/guardians to attend conferences with their student.
Student Notebooks + Planners
Each student needs a 3-ring binder for the assignment calendar (Lower School) and/or student planner (Middle School) and any other communication and homework. Students will bring the notebooks home daily. Parents/guardians should initial or sign the assignment calendar/student planner, and the notebook must be returned to school daily.
Homework Philosophy
At Hamlin Robinson School, homework provides practice of existing academic skills and helps develop critical executive function and study habits, preparing students for future success. We practice the following guidelines when assigning homework:
• Homework builds from 10 minutes per night per grade level.
• Homework time includes reading minutes.
• Homework is independent practice of skills explicitly taught in class.
• Homework procedures taught in class include:
o Organization and placement of assignments, sequence and process of homework completion
o Documentation of homework assignments and materials needed
o How to advocate and communicate with a teacher when stuck
• Homework feedback should be a timely, two-way communication between family/student and teacher.
• Homework should be both a reflection of what is happening in class and inform instructional pacing.
The above guidelines develop and strengthen the following student skills:
Executive Functioning: practicing time management, self-discipline, organization, prioritization, and planning
Resource Access: knowing where and how to utilize materials and information
Accountability: asking questions and requesting accommodations when needed
Self-Advocacy: reflecting on their own role as a learner and communicating with the teacher when stuck
These guidelines create a meaningful academic routine for students at Hamlin Robinson School. By emphasizing process over outcomes, we aim for students to take ownership in their learning, while experiencing pride in their work and themselves.
Field Trips
Field trips are an important part of the HRS program. Field trips are planned by teachers to enrich and enhance classroom learning by integrating the practical with the theoretical. Almost all field trips involve curricular, cultural, and personal enrichment. The school views field trips as an extension of the classroom and expects students’ manners and behavior to be consistent with those expected at school.
Student Council
Student Council is dedicated to teaching students about leadership, community, and participation. The Student Council works to inspire and empower others to make positive changes personally and socially. Each representative from 4th - 8th grades will learn about effective leadership by actively participating in the organization of school events. Student Council meetings run for thirty minutes. Representatives are expected to set a positive example as a student leader, attend all Student Council meetings, keep their classroom informed about Council activities, and actively participate in all aspects of organizing and promoting Student Council-sponsored events.
ADMINISTRATION:
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for academic progress, peer relationship development, and selfesteem. Please call the front office before 7:45am to report a student absence. Tardiness and absences are recorded daily and become part of the permanent student record. Students arriving after 8:10am will be considered tardy.
A parent or guardian conference may be requested should a student be absent or tardy more than five days in a reporting period (trimester). Excessive absences will impact enrollment decisions and placement. In some cases, it may not be possible to complete progress reports for students with prolonged absences.
Late Arrival
Students arriving after 8:10am will be tardy. Anyone arriving after morning drop-off (either tardy or late arrival) will need to enter through the front office to check in.
Extended Absences
HRS draws families from multiple d school districts. We make every effort to align school breaks with the surrounding districts. There will likely be times when school breaks do not align. In these cases, when planning a trip or vacation, please consider taking siblings out of school, rather than the student attending HRS. Consistency of instruction, timely arrival, and attendance are critical for our students.
If your student will be absent from school, a parent/guardian should contact the front office. Early dismissal is granted when authorized in advance by a phone call or email from a parent/ guardian.
For extended absences, additional work packets or assignments for students to complete while away are not provided or expected of students. Families are encouraged to focus on their time together and, if desired, maintain learning through daily reading, writing (such as journaling or postcards), and practicing math facts. In some cases, such as when a class is in the middle of a significant project, a teacher may share project-related work that can reasonably be done at home.
Extended Day Program
HRS offers supervised after-school care beginning at 2:55 pm until 6:00pm. If parents/guardians are delayed, the student is taken to Extended Day. Students are not allowed to wait outside unattended. Extended Day is available on an annual or daily drop-in basis. Registration can be found on myHRS.
Student Records
HRS maintains records of student academic progress, health, interests, and activities in a cumulative file at the school. These records are available for inspection and review in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. Staff will provide parents with copies of any documents requested; however, the file will not be released to a parent.
If a parent believes any part of the record is inaccurate, they may submit a change request in writing. When a student transfers out of the school, student records will be forwarded after the new school makes the request in writing and all business transactions with Hamlin Robinson School are complete.
Requests for records to be sent to another school or agency must be made in writing and signed by the parent/ guardian. Please allow at least two weeks for the request to be processed. To schedule time to review the student file please contact the front office.
Lockers
All students have a locker. The locker is not student property, and the school has the right to open and inspect the locker at any time.
Change Contact Information
Parents should keep contact information up to date via myHRS.
Lunch
HRS offers a hot lunch program. Information and registration can be found on myHRS.
Tuition
Tuition and fees are the primary sources of revenue for the school. Families are asked to make their payments in a timely manner. Payments not received by the deadline will be subject to late fees. A processing fee on returned checks will be charged. If a family is experiencing financial difficulty, please notify the business office as soon as possible. The school is interested in supporting families but, on occasion, the school may implement the delinquent account policy. For accounts in arrears, the school may withhold academic reports, transcripts, school
information or prohibit students from participating in school activities, including but not limited to graduation ceremonies, after school programs and bus transportation. Additionally, the school may withhold enrollment contracts or will not transfer records or recommendations due to a late account with the school. A student may not begin a new school year if there is an outstanding balance on the account.
Billing and Payments
Hamlin Robinson School offers payment plan options for tuition remittance. Payment is made through myHRS.
Tuition Assistance
Hamlin Robinson School is committed to making its program accessible to families who find it difficult to pay tuition. To help manage the cost, a tuition assistance program offers support to qualifying families. Last year, HRS extended tuition assistance to over 25% of its student body. HRS tuition assistance awards range from 10% up to 95% of tuition.
Hamlin Robinson School uses a third party (Clarity) to provide an objective methodology for calculating a family’s ability to contribute to educational expenses. The school makes no guarantees tuition assistance will be continued from one year to the next but strives to provide ongoing tuition assistance for returning families. Please visit our website to learn more.
SCHOOL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
HRS Behavior Code
The goal of the Behavior Code is to create and sustain a community based on respect, responsibility, purpose and perseverance. These values help faculty establish a positive environment allowing students to actively engage in learning. Students are expected to arrive at school ready to learn and prepared to heighten the achievement, wellbeing, and character of themselves and others.
Teachers approach behavior issues in the classroom with a view towards reinforcing good behavior. Teachers provide guided practice to deal with challenges, as well as understanding the impact negative behaviors have on classmates and the learning community. Equally, administration reinforces classroom and school values by offering additional support, working with teachers and parents, and helping problem solve. Together, parents, students, teachers, and administrators create a supportive team in managing on-going discipline issues.
Students are expected to demonstrate behavior that contributes to a positive learning climate. Behaviors will be addressed if they continually impede student progress, interrupt the learning of other students, or prevent effective instruction. Students are expected to follow school rules and use them in governing their behavior. These rules apply to all school activities, including riding the bus, field trips, and taking part in overnight school programs.
Core Values
These basic values are in effect at all times. Teachers review these values with their classes so students understand behavior expectations.
Respect: We show appreciation and acceptance for ourselves, our community, and our learning. Responsibility: We show integrity and accountability for our choices. Purpose: We show dedication and resolve through our actions. Perseverance: We show commitment and resilience in all our endeavors.
Responding to Behavior Issues
School personnel employ a variety of behavior management techniques to ensure the physical and emotional safety of each student. At no time is corporal punishment utilized.
Teachers observe behavior and use various classroom interventions as applicable:
• Positive reinforcement of behavior expectations (verbal recognition, privileges, point chart, stickers, stars)
• Pause while making eye contact with student
• Close proximity of teacher to student
• Redirection by voice or signal
• Review of behavior expectations
• Reset break within the classroom, in designated hallway space, or with an administrator
• Discussion and problem solving with teacher
• Loss of privilege
When interventions have not been successful, or in case of severely inappropriate behavior, any supervising adult may send the student to an administrator to discuss behavior, solutions, and possible consequences. Consequences may include:
• Time to reflect
• Problem solving
• Loss of privileges
• Call to parents/guardians
• Administrator observation of student
• Teacher and administrator discussion with student concerning behaviors and issues
• Conference with parents/guardians
• In-school suspension
• Home suspension
• Expulsion
Behavior Code Violations Protocol
1. Any student who believes they are victim of or observe incidents that violate the HRS behavior code are strongly encouraged to inform or report the situation to a teacher or other staff member.
2. If a child reports to their parent/guardian(s) about an incident, that parent/guardian should promptly communicate the situation directly to either the classroom teacher, Division Head or Head of School.
3. The teacher or staff member who has been approached will notify the Head of School or Division Head. Either the Head or Division Head will do an investigation of the incident(s). Reports will be treated confidentially and only be reported to others within the school’s community on a need-to-know-basis.
4. Parents or legal guardians of students involved in the incident will be notified, as well as next steps to resolve the situation and possible consequences. A meeting may be arranged with the student(s), parent(s), and the Head of School and/or Division Head to discuss the situation further.
5. HRS may encourage parents or legal guardians to consider additional outside resources, such as private counseling, to help address patterns of unacceptable behavior or impact as a result of inappropriate behavior.
Dismissal from the HRS Program
HRS reserves the right to refuse enrollment or dismiss any student who, in the sole judgment of Hamlin Robinson School, has not consistently demonstrated a commitment to learning, a willingness to follow behavioral expections, or whose enrollment is determined by the school to be inappropriate for any other reason. Parents/guardians agree to this in writing when signing the enrollment contract.
Outplacement Procedure
Hamlin Robinson School seeks to admit students who are mission appropriate; students who will succeed and thrive in the educational setting the school provides. On the rare occasion a student’s needs are not being met by the HRS program, the administration may counsel a family to find an alternate placement for their student. Counseling a student out of HRS is different from expelling a student.
The decision to counsel a student out of Hamlin Robinson School will be made by the administration following input from the student’s support team – teachers, specialists, Division Head, the Head of School, and the parents/guardian of the student. The outplacement decision is made when the student’s educational, social, or emotional needs are not being met and the student is not experiencing success in the program/classroom. While other factors may be considered, the goal of providing a successful educational experience for the student will remain at the core of the process.
The process to make an outplacement decision happens during the course of the school year and the student is not re-enrolled for the following school year. Under certain circumstances, the outplacement may occur prior to the end of the school year.
Anti-Bullying Policy
All members of the HRS community have the right to be in a school environment free from bullying. Such an environment is achieved when people demonstrate mutual respect, selfdiscipline, and self-responsibility. Acquiescence of the victim and/or others involved is no justification for bullying. The implied or expressed consent of a person or persons to bullying shall not be a defense against discipline under this policy. This policy applies to students on school grounds, off campus at a school sponsored activity, and while traveling to and from school. It also applies to on or off-campus electronic or cyber-bullying when the effect of such incidents negatively affects Hamlin Robinson students as a result of their mutual relationship with Hamlin Robinson School.
See complete Anti-Bullying Policy in the Appendix.
Parent Communication Regarding Bullying Concerns
If parents/guardians become aware of bullying (physical, verbal, or cyber), inform the classroom teacher or advisor. If additional help is needed, the Division Head or Head of School should be consulted.
INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
Hamlin Robinson School makes internet access available to students. Students are expected to use HRS computers and the internet responsibly and for school-related purposes only. As a condition for accessing the internet, students understand and agree with the following:
• Use of the internet is a privilege. If any of the “conditions of use” are violated then the privilege may be taken away by school teachers or administrators, and other consequences may follow.
• Use of the internet is for school-related purposes only.
Administrators will decide what constitutes violation of internet policies. Violations include, but are not limited to:
• Transmission, creation of or deliberate access to obscene, indecent, harassing, defamatory or otherwise offensive material in any form.
• Access to any personal information page. (ex: Facebook or Instagram)
• Any deliberate attempt to harm or destroy data.
• Unauthorized installation, storage, or distribution of copyrighted software or files.
• Violation of policies or federal and state laws.
School administrators have the right to review any material received, sent, viewed, or stored on computers, including websites and emails. Administrators can edit or remove any material believed to be unlawful, obscene, indecent, harassing, or otherwise objectionable.
• Students are prohibited from giving out personal information such as their name, picture, phone number, or home address while using the internet at school.
• Hamlin Robinson School does not warrant the function of the internet service will meet any specific requirements students may have, or internet service will be error-free or uninterrupted.
• All other related student policies are applicable.
STUDENT PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES: USE PROHIBITED ON CAMPUS FROM ARRIVAL TO DEPARTURE
HRS is committed to providing a focused, supportive learning environment in which students can be fully present with their teachers, classmates, and school community. Personal electronic devices can interrupt attention, increase distraction, and interfere with learning and face-to-face connection, even when students are not actively using them. For these reasons, HRS maintains an arrival-to-departure ban on student use of personal electronic devices in all grades 1-8.
The arrival-to-departure ban applies to all students from the time they step onto campus until they are in a car or on the bus to go home including classes, transitions, recess, lunch, assemblies, and after-school care.
Personal electronic devices include, but are not limited to:
• Cell phones and smartphones
• Smartwatches and fitness trackers with communication or app capabilities
• Tablets, laptops, and handheld gaming devices
• Cameras, smart glasses, recording devices, and any other personal device capable of connecting to a cellular, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth network
School-issued devices used under the direction of a teacher or staff member are not included in this restriction.
Students should leave personal devices at home whenever possible. If a device is necessary for transportation or a family logistical need, it must be powered completely off, not silenced, and stored in the student’s locker for the entire school day. Smartwatches and other wearable devices may not be worn during the school day and must also be powered off and stored.
Students may not access, check, wear, or use a personal electronic device during the school day unless specifically authorized as part of an approved medical or accessibility plan.
Parents and guardians who need to contact their student during the school day should call or email the front office rather than contacting the student directly. Students who need to contact a parent or guardian may do so through the front office or with the assistance of a staff member. In an emergency, the school will communicate directly with families through its established emergency procedures.
HRS is not responsible for personal devices that are lost, stolen, or damaged while at school, including devices temporarily held by a staff member.
When a Student Does Not Follow the Policy
If a student accesses or uses a personal electronic device during the school day the student will give the device to a staff member to be returned to the student at the end of the school day. Repeated violations will result in the device being held until it can be picked up by a parent or guardian, and/or engage in a conference with the student, family, teachers, and an administrator.
DRESS CODE
The HRS dress code is designed to support the mission of the school so learning can take place in an atmosphere of mutual respect and responsibility. Clothing worn at school should emphasize the emotional comfort and physical safety of students. Clothing should allow students and teachers to focus on the work of the class. Students should have appropriate clothing for the elements – including coats/jackets. To ensure safety at recess and P.E., students should wear socks and shoes with good traction. Flip-flops or sandals that are not secured to the foot should not be worn at school. HRS is a scent product-free school in order to support the learning of smellsensitive students/teachers. In addition:
• Students should be able to dress and style their hair for school in a manner that expresses their individuality without fear of unnecessary discipline or body shaming.
• Students have the right to be treated equitably. Dress code enforcement will not create disparities, reinforce or increase marginalization of any group, nor will it be more strictly enforced against students because of racial identity, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, gender nonconformity, sexual orientation, cultural or religious identity, household income, body size/type, or body maturity.
• Students are responsible for managing their personal distractions.
• Students should not face unnecessary barriers to school attendance.
• Clothing and accessories should not display messages, images, or symbols that promote political candidates, contain inappropriate language or imagery, or reference alcohol, drugs, or illegal substances.
Students must wear:
• Top (shirt, blouse, sweater, sweatshirt, tank, etc.);
• Bottom (pants, shorts, skirt, dress, etc.); and
• Footwear.
Students’ faces should generally remain visible during the school day when necessary for safety, communication, and identification. Exceptions may be made for religious, medical, or schoolapproved purposes.
Reasonable exceptions to this dress code may be made for religious, cultural, or medical reasons, consistent with school safety requirements.
LOST AND FOUND
Items found on campus will be placed in the school lost and found, located in the commons. At the end of every trimester, unclaimed items are donated to a local non-profit. The school is not responsible for lost or broken personal possessions.
SPECIAL OCCASIONS
Birthday Cupcakes
Sending birthday treats to school with your child is not necessary or expected. During their birthday or half-birthday month, students are treated to a cupcake celebration provided by the school. To help create a culture of safety, equity, and inclusion and to keep celebrations consistent, we ask families not to send additional treats from home. The school-provided cupcakes are meant to ensure every child feels celebrated without adding extra classroom disruptions or inequities. We understand birthdays are meaningful for families. If you do choose to send an additional treat, please select small, store-bought items (such as mini cupcakes or donut holes) and consider any dietary, allergy, or cultural needs of the class community.
Parties Outside of School
To respect the feelings of all students, we ask the following considerations when planning a party:
• Please take care to plan the party to be inclusive. If possible, invite the entire class.
• Please mail all invitations – do not deliver at school.
• In instances that invitations are limited, please tell your student not to talk at school about special plans or events.
Gifts to Faculty from Students and Parents
For special occasions (such as birthdays or holidays), students may want to give a gift to their teacher or another member of our faculty. We do not wish to discourage these kindnesses. However, in order to support socioeconomic diversity and an equal experience for all students and staff, we discourage families from giving gifts of a “significant” monetary value. Additionally, we discourage the collection of funds to contribute to one class gift, even if voluntary.
PICK-UP AND DROP-OFF
Help us be respectful of our neighbors by being mindful to not block driveways or interfere with trash bins when lining up for pick-up and drop-off.
MORNING DROP-OFF:
Lower and Middle Schools: 7:55am–8:10am
Drop your students off in the load/unload zone on Valentine Pl.
• Please pull all the way forward on Valentine Pl. as space allows.
• Please prepare your student to be able to exit the vehicle independently by the passenger/ sidewalk side only.
• Parents/guardians must stay in the car during drop-off.
• Students will proceed down the playground stairwell.
• Students arriving after 8:10am must check in at their respective front office.
AFTERNOON PICK-UP:
Lower School (Grades 1 - 5): 2:55pm–3:10pm
Middle School (Grades 6 - 8): 3:05pm–3:20pm
• Please avoid entering the pick-up line early.
• Please only enter Valentine Pl. from the south.
• Staff will guide students to the pick-up zone.
• Please prepare your student to be able to enter the vehicle independently by the passenger/ sidewalk side only.
• Parents/guardians must stay in the car; do not wait for students on sidewalk.
• Teachers will load students into the first 4-5 cars at the front of the line. As these cars exit, the next cars should move forward.
• Please follow the flow of traffic and do not make illegal U-turns or any unsafe turns in the pickup area.
Permission for Independent Dismissal (Middle School only)
Hamlin Robinson School is located in an urban environment with many transportation options and parents may choose to have their student walk, ride their bike, or take public transportation to and from school. Parents/guardians can provide permission for their Middle School student to leave school independently. In doing so, the parent/guardian fully releases Hamlin Robinson School, its trustees, officers, agents and employees, from any and all claims related to the student. Independent dismissal is only available to Middle School students. Special consideration can be made with the permission of the Head of School.
Other Arrival and Dismissal Notes
Students should not arrive at the school before 7:30am. Students arriving before 7:50 am should enter through the front office.
Students arriving late must check in with the front office and receive a tardy slip. Student tardies will be recorded on the student progress report and will become part of the official record. For
students applying to independent middle schools for high school, a record of repeated late arrivals may affect the application. Students leaving prior to dismissal must have an adult present (unless the school has received written permission to release the student independently). Students not picked up 15 minutes after dismissal will go to Extended Day.
Pick-Up from Extended Day Program
Pick-up from the HRS Extended Day Program takes place on Valentine Pl. Every parent/guardian must complete an authorization form listing the individuals allowed to pick up their student.
Carpools
It is the responsibility of the parents/guardians to coordinate and communicate carpool plans.
Parking
Street parking is available for visitors to the school. Please observe street signs, bus loading signs and hours, and do not park in local driveways or in the parking lots of local businesses.
Visitors on Campus
Visitors, including parents and siblings, will sign in and out at the front desk. Guest badges are available in the front office; all visitors will take a badge when visiting and sign out when leaving.
TRANSPORTATION
Bus Service
Hamlin Robinson School offers bus service on routes throughout the Seattle area at an additional cost. The routes, stops, and times can be found on the parent portal. Students are expected to treat the bus as an extension of the school and maintain good behavior.
Bus Safety Guidelines and Behavior Expectations
Students must follow all these guidelines and expectations issued by the school as well as all directions of the bus driver. Bus drivers are employed by Zum and are not employees of Hamlin Robinson School. Any student who does not follow the guidelines, expectations, or directions of HRS employees or Zum employees including but not limited to the bus driver may lose the right to ride the bus. HRS has the right to suspend, expel, or otherwise remove any student from riding the bus or otherwise address the student’s conduct and status at HRS for conduct that violates HRS bus rules, policies, and standards. If bus privileges are suspended or terminated, families must arrange their own transportation to and from school.
For the safety of everyone on the bus, riders agree to the following rules:
• All bus riders will remain in their assigned seats, sitting down, and facing forward at all times except when exiting or entering the bus.
• All bus riders will follow the directives of the bus driver related to behavior and safety.
• All bus riders are required to wear a seat belt.
• The aisle must be kept clear at all times. Feet, backpacks, or other items may not be in the aisle.
• Conversations should be limited to those seated nearby and voice levels should be kept low.
• No hitting, spitting, pinching, pushing, forcible or inappropriate touch, or other physical acts.
• Name calling or threatening words are not allowed.
• Sharing devices (phones or music players) is not allowed.
• Bus riders will keep the bus clean, pick up after themselves, and not harm/destroy/vandalize bus property.
• HRS school rules apply. Riding the bus is an extension of school time. This includes being respectful of each bus rider, of others, and of property. Disruptive behaviors will not be tolerated.
No refund will be given when a student’s behavior results in the loss of bus riding privileges.
Incident Reporting
If an incident should occur on the bus, parents/guardians are to immediately report the incident to HRS. One or more of the following responses can be expected, depending on the circumstances:
• The student(s) will meet with school administrator to address the incident or report.
• Parents/guardians will be contacted.
• Students may lose privileges at school.
• Students may have an in school suspension (time spent supervised by an administrator) or other discipline, up to and including dismissal from HRS, as determined in the sole discretion of HRS.
• The student may have to move to a seat up front or by themself on the bus.
• The student may be suspended from the bus for a set period of time.
• The student may lose the privilege to continue to ride the bus for the remainder of the year.
Pick-Up/Drop-Off Timing
It is HRS policy that students are dropped off and picked up from the bus stop by a designated adult unless the parent/guardian has completed and submitted the HRS authorization form for independent dismissal. Students and parents/guardians should arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the scheduled pick-up or drop-off time to ensure they do not miss a pickup or drop-off. The bus has a schedule to meet and cannot wait for late students. The bus will leave promptly at the scheduled pick-up or drop-off time. Should a student miss the bus in the morning, parents must find alternative means of transporting their child to school. At pick-up, the bus will depart promptly after students have exited the bus to maintain the bus schedule.
Late Pick-up Policy
If a parent/guardian is late picking up a student from the bus stop in the afternoon, it is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to call HRS (206-763-1167) and meet the bus at the final stop on the route. The bus driver will wait at the final stop of the route for 15 minutes for the parent/ guardian to arrive before heading back to Hamlin Robinson School and dropping the student off at Extended Day. If the bus has to drop a student back off at Hamlin Robinson School, a flat fee of $50 will be billed to the parent/guardian in addition to the $34 Extended Day drop-in fee, per occurrence.
AUXILIARY PROGRAMS
Hamlin Robinson School offers Extended Day care from dismissal to 6:00pm on instructional days. In addition to extended care, there are a variety of After School Programs (ASP). After school programs typically end between 4:10 and 4:25pm, and enrolled students can be picked up at that time or join Extended Day after their activity at no additional cost. For pick-up, ASP teachers bring students up to the pick-up area on Valentine Pl; any students not picked up within five minutes join Extended Day. More information can be found on the school website and myHRS.
SPEECH AND LANGUAGE SERVICES
Hamlin Robinson School offers fee-based model of therapy with a limited number of spaces available. This model provides an integrated experience for our students. If referred, students are screened for speech and language difficulties. For students enrolled in our speech and language program, parents should expect:
• Scheduled sessions of therapy as agreed upon with registration
• Progress reports
• Student observations
• Teacher consultations for skill building and support
• Parent consultations as needed
For more information, please visit the school website and complete a speech inquiry form.
SUMMER PROGRAM
Hamlin Robinson School offers a four-week summer program. The Slingerland® Summer Program focuses on handwriting, reading, comprehension, writing, spelling, and oral language. It is intended for students entering first grade through eighth grade and is open to current HRS families as well as families that do not currently attend Hamlin Robinson School. Details and registration information can be found on the school website.
TRANSITION PLANNING
At Hamlin Robinson School, we are committed to the long-term success of our students and ensuring a smooth and successful transition to their next school. The transition team begins working with families in 7th grade to help guide the process of high school selection and transition from HRS. We offer families a variety of opportunities to learn from admission professionals, alumni parents and students, counselors and others.
TUTORING AND SCREENING
Tutoring and Slingerland® screening are available on campus for current students as well as nonHRS students.
COMMUNICATION
myHRS
Our student information system is myHRS. In myHRS, parents and students can check attendance, view class assignments and grades, and access other important academic information.
Thursday Thoughts
Thursday Thoughts is a weekly email communication for current families. It includes important school news, upcoming event information, community updates, and much more. Stay up-to-date on all things HRS by reading Thursday Thoughts.
The Scoop
The Scoop is a hard-copy and web newsletter to showcase and share our school initiatives, honor and recognize our student body and faculty, and feature special activities. It’s published quarterly in the summer, fall, winter, and spring and mailed to families’ homes.
Social Media
Our HRS social media pages are a great way to learn more about the HRS community. You’ll see photos of school life, educational and dyslexia news, and more. Links to our social media can also be found on the bottom of our website homepage.
FAMILY ASSOCIATION
The mission of the HRS Family Association (FA) is to promote belonging, participation, education, and awareness for the families attending Hamlin Robinson School. The purpose is to nurture a spirit of involvement and community between the school and its families and help establish and support programs that create an inclusive and welcoming climate.
All parents, guardians or family members of current students attending Hamlin Robinson School are participating members of the Family Association, and may attend all association meetings. To volunteer or learn more, contact the Advancement Office at info@hamlinrobinson.org.
SUPPORTING HAMLIN ROBINSON SCHOOL
Hamlin Robinson School is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ignite the academic and creative potential of students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Tuition covers about 84 percent of the cost of operating the school. We rely on other revenue sources, including philanthropy, to balance our budget annually. Gifts provide financial aid, professional development opportunities, capital improvements, program enhancements, and more.
We are grateful to our families, past-parents, grandparents, alumni, faculty, staff and many friends of the HRS community who give generously to help ensure our success. This support affirms a valued partnership with the school to provide the best educational opportunities for our students.
HRS Annual Fund
The annual fund campaign runs from July 1 through June 30 annually with a focused fundraising period during the month of October. Our goal is 100% HRS family participation as well as 100% trustee and faculty participation. A high participation rate in the annual fund strengthens the School’s case for external funding. Potential donors (foundations and corporations) will look to see if those closest to the school exhibit their belief in the mission by contributing to the fundraising efforts.
HRS Spring Event
The school needs the support of every parent/guardian to help make a success of this tremendously important source of funding. Please consider carefully how you will participate in the fun and excitement of our yearly event. Each family is asked to participate by donating, volunteering or attending. Information will be communicated in Thursday Thoughts.
Volunteering
At Hamlin Robinson School, volunteer support provides the opportunity for parents and guardians to support the school with their time and talents and also serves as a vital community builder. Please visit the Family Association page on the website for more information.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
The health and safety of our community is our greatest concern. The school has adopted a safety plan for operation which is consistent with safety and health information from State and Local Health Districts and Authorities, the State of Washington, and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
GENERAL HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Immunizations
Washington State regulations require each student have a completed certificate of immunization form on file in the school office before he or she is admitted to school. Hamlin Robinson School must enforce state reporting requirements and request families’ cooperation.
Hamlin Robinson School follows the recommendations of the King County Health Department. Students exempt from any immunization may be excluded from school during an outbreak of the exempt disease.
When Students Are Sick
When students are sick, they should remain at home in order to prevent the spread of infection and disease. The student should be without a fever for 24 hours before they return to school. When students become sick at school, parents/guardians will be notified.
Head Lice
If your student has a confirmed case of head lice, please treat immediately and notify the school. If a student is found with live head lice at school, the parents/guardians will be notified. The affected student may return to school when a parent/guardian confirms the student has received treatment and the student has no live lice. In order to curb the spread of head lice, encourage students not to share hats, scarves, combs, or other personal items.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS + EMERGENCIES
Life-Threatening Medical Conditions
Policies and procedures are in place to minimize risk and provide a safe and enriched educational environment for students with life-threatening medical conditions, such as diabetes. Families are responsible for informing the school, facilitating communication with their student’s health care provider, and providing ongoing health information and necessary medical supplies. Collaboration between the family, health care providers, and the school is an essential component in a safe, responsive, and effective school experience. Hamlin Robinson School will partner with families of students with diabetes to support the student while at school, but it is ultimately the family’s responsibility to assure the student has the resources needed to manage daily needs.
Allergies + Anaphylactic Shock
Parents/guardians shall submit written protocols for their students with allergies. Information about student allergies will be shared with all staff members who have contact with the student.
The school must be informed if your student suffers from an anaphylactic reaction. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to provide a diagnosis in writing and a prescriptive treatment plan from the physician. Parents are expected to provide the injectable epinephrine pens.
Parents/guardians of students with life-threatening allergies shall provide the school with emergency medications, such as EpiPen, and an individualized written medical treatment protocol for addressing allergy-related events. The front office will maintain all the information.
Parents/guardians are responsible for educating their student about managing their allergies, including EpiPen, while at school. Appropriate medical personnel will train the staff in the administration of EpiPens.
MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION
General Requirements
The dispensing of oral medication is a service provided by Hamlin Robinson School determined by state law; therefore, the following requirements must be followed:
• A completed medication authorization form must be on file for all over-the-counter medications and/or prescription medication.
• Medication will not be administered unless all paperwork is completed.
Required Documentation
The form must have:
• All information provided in complete detail.
• All the directions clearly defined.
• A physician’s signature.
• A parent/guardian signature.
Changes in long-term medications require a new written order by the physician.
Bringing Medication To School
The following guidelines must be followed when transporting medication to school:
• The medication must be delivered to school in a properly labeled prescription bottle.
• No “baggies” or envelopes containing medication will be accepted.
• Because most of the medications requiring school administration are controlled substances, medication must be brought to the office by a parent, guardian or a designated adult substitute. Medications arriving by any other means require prior notification to the office. For your student’s safety, please deliver the medication to the front office in person.
All medications are kept locked in the school office.
Over-The-Counter Medications
Non-prescription, over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, cough drops and syrup, Tylenol or Benadryl, must be accompanied by a completed medication authorization form and left in the front office. Students are not allowed to self-administer any medications when not in the presence of HRS office staff.
The physician may either complete and sign the medication form or write a prescription to label the medication. The parent or guardian fills out the top and signs the bottom of the medication form. If the over-the-counter medication is not prescription labeled, the parent or guardian must label the medication. The information must be the same as the doctor’s prescription, indicating dose and time of administration.
Medication authorization forms are available in the front office and on the parent portal.
INJURIES + EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Minor Injuries
A student with a minor injury will receive first-aid treatment. The adult in charge will fill out an accident report at the time of the injury.
Serious Injuries
If a student has a major injury, the parent/guardian will be called.
Emergency Medical Situations
In the event of an emergency requiring professional medical treatment, 911 will be called. Recommendations of the emergency team will be followed. If hospital treatment is necessary, the student will be transported by the emergency personnel to the nearest hospital or medical center. A copy of the emergency form will accompany the student and an administrator will follow by car. Parents/guardians will be notified immediately.
EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSURES
Hamlin Robinson School reserves the right to make independent decisions around closures, late openings, and early dismissals. However, in most cases, HRS will follow decisions made by Seattle Public Schools. The school alerts parents to school closures via the HRS website, social media, email, and text messages (opt-in required for text message alerts).
In the event of a pending/possible school closure, parents/guardians may choose to pick up students early or keep them at home.
To maintain bus service during adverse weather conditions, the HRS bus service will inform us of any necessary route changes, and we will advise parents/guardians as soon as alternate routes are established.
Emergency Preparedness
HRS staff are trained to handle any given situation until help arrives. All staff members are CPR/ First Aid certified; we conduct regular disaster preparedness training including earthquake and lockdown drills; and we have assigned roles in the event of an emergency (command control, communications, first aid, or search and rescue). If an emergency does occur, coordination with police, fire, and rescue is the top priority. Classroom teachers will stay with their students until another capable adult relieves them. There will be a checkpoint in the school office for pick-up and formal release procedures to assure the safety of every student. Please keep your student’s emergency information up to date.
HRS conducts whole school drills every month. Drills include fire, earthquake, and lockdown.
Policy on Dangerous Weapons
Safety of students and staff in our school is paramount. As such, weapons on school grounds are an immediate threat to students and staff and will not be tolerated. Therefore, all persons are prohibited from bringing or being in possession of dangerous weapons on any school grounds, school provided transportation, school facility or to any school-sponsored activity.
For the purpose of this policy, the school adopts the definition of dangerous weapons as set forth in RCW 9.41.250 as now or hereafter amended. Any student found to have in their possession, or in their desk, or on the school premises, any dangerous weapon or replica of a dangerous weapon, may be subject to immediate expulsion from school pursuant to RCW 9.41.280 and WAC 18040-275. Further, any student use of a weapon or object in a threatening manner is grounds for immediate expulsion. Ammunition is considered an explosive device and is also banned.
Dangerous weapons as defined in RCW 9.41.250 and RCW 9.41.280 include:
Every person who shall have in his possession any instrument or weapon of the kind usually known as sling shot, sand club, or metal knuckles, or spring blade knife, or any knife the blade of which is automatically released by a spring mechanism or other mechanical device, or any knife having a blade which opens or fails, or is ejected into position by the force of gravity, or by an outward, downward, or centrifugal thrust or movement; who shall furtively carry with intent to conceal any dagger, dirk, pistol, or other dangerous weapon; or who shall use any contrivance or device for suppressing the noise of any firearm (RCW 9.41.250). Any firearm; any device commonly known as “nun-chukka sticks,” consisting of two or more lengths of wood, metal, plastic or similar substance connected with wire, rope, or other means; or any device commonly known as “throwing stars,” which are multi pointed, metal objects designed to embed upon impact from any aspect; or any air gun, including any air pistol or air rifle designed to propel a BB, pellet, or other projectile by the discharge of compressed air, carbon dioxide or other gas. (RCW 9.41.280) Violators are guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
ANTI-BULLYING APPENDIX
Hamlin Robinson School is committed to maintaining a respectful school environment. In keeping with our core values of respect, responsibility, purpose, and perseverance, teaching about bullying builds the foundation for good citizenship and promotes positive, respectful interactions with all members of our school community. Bullying in any form will not be tolerated. The purposes of the Anti-Bullying Policy are to inform our school community, to prevent bullying, and to offer procedures to address incidents in a fair and just manner. We believe that children need to be educated about bullying and learn tools to stand up for themselves and others.
What Is Bullying?
Hamlin Robinson School is committed to a safe and respectful educational environment for all students, employees, volunteers and other community members free from harassment, intimidation or bullying.
Harassment, intimidation or bullying means any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, including but not limited to, one shown to be motivated by any characteristic in RCW (Revised Code of Washington) 9A.36.080(3) (race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or mental or physical disability), or other distinguishing characteristics, when the intentional written, verbal or physical act:
• Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property.
• Has the effect of substantially interfering with student education.
• Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment.
• Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.
Definitions of bullying in particular point to a combination of behaviors, rather than a single act. That is, while it may be developmentally appropriate for children to have low impulse control and occasionally act out in a physical or verbally hurtful way, most psychologists consider a combination of behaviors before using the evocative term, “bully.” All members of this community, including parents, must not be too quick to jump to conclusions. We all need to be careful how we use the word “bullying.”
For the Hamlin Robinson School community, bullying encompasses some or all of the following behaviors:
• A desire to hurt
• Hurtful action
• A power imbalance
• (Typically) repetition
• An unjust use of power
• Evident enjoyment by the aggressor
• A sense of being oppressed on the part of the victim
Furthermore, many psychologists regard bullying as a disrespectful relationship problem:
• People who bully are learning to use power and aggression to control and distress others.
• People who are victimized become increasingly powerless and find themselves trapped in relationships in which they are being abused.
Bullying can also be a behavior displayed by adults. For that reason, it is very important to understand teachers, administrators, support staff and parents all have an obligation to (a) not bully others (b) not stand by while others are bullied, and/or (c) always report and deal with bullying whenever seen.
FORMS OF BULLYING
This list is not meant to be all inclusive.
Physical bullying includes behaviors such as: hitting, kicking, shoving, spitting, beating up, stealing, or damaging property.
Verbal bullying includes behaviors such as: name-calling, mocking, teasing, humiliating, and threatening someone, racist comments, or sexual harassment, directly or indirectly.
Social and psychological bullying includes behaviors such as: making rude gestures, excluding others from the group, gossiping or spreading rumors, setting others up to look foolish and damaging friendships. It may also include ostracizing or ignoring peers, name calling, and teasing hurtfully.
Electronic or cyber-bullying includes the use of email, cell phones, text messages, and Internet sites to threaten, harass, embarrass, socially exclude, or damage reputations and friendships.
Racial bullying includes behaviors such as: treating people badly because of their racial or ethnic background, making negative comments about a person’s cultural background, calling someone racist names, or telling racist jokes.
Religious bullying includes treating people badly because of their religious background or beliefs, saying bad things about a religious background or belief, calling someone names or telling jokes based on his or her religious beliefs.
Sexual bullying includes behaviors such as: excluding or treating someone badly because he/ she is a boy or a girl; making someone feel uncomfortable because of their gender; making sexist comments or jokes; touching, pinching or grabbing someone in a sexual way; spreading a sexual rumor about someone, or calling someone names based on sexual orientation.
Disability bullying includes behaviors such as: excluding someone or treating them badly because of a disability, making someone feel uncomfortable because of a disability, or making comments or jokes to hurt someone with a disability.
Hamlin Robinson School Anti-Bullying Policy
All members of the Hamlin Robinson community have the right to be in a school environment free from bullying. Such an environment is achieved when people demonstrate mutual respect, self-discipline, and self-responsibility. Acquiescence of the victim and/or others involved is no justification for bullying. The implied or expressed consent of a person or persons to bullying shall not be a defense against discipline under this policy. This policy applies to students on school grounds, off campus at a school sponsored activity and while traveling to and from school. It also applies to on or off-campus electronic or ‘cyber-bullying’ when the effect of such incidents negatively affects HRS students as a result of their mutual relationship with Hamlin Robinson School.
All staff, students and their parents/guardians will receive this policy at the beginning of the school year as part of the employee and parent/student handbooks.
1. Any student who believes they are the victim of bullying or observes incidents that might constitute bullying is strongly encouraged to inform or report the situation to a teacher or other staff member.
2. If a child reports to their parent(s) about an incident, that parent should promptly communicate the situation directly to either the classroom teacher, Division Head or Head of School.
3. The teacher or staff member who has been approached will notify the Head of School or Division Head. Either the Head of School or Division Head will do an investigation of the incident(s). Reports will be treated confidentially and only be reported to others within the school’s community on a need-to-know-basis. However, in almost every circumstance the offending party, if there is one, will have to be informed to properly gather all relevant facts.
4. Parents or legal guardians of both the alleged bully(s) and victim(s) will be notified of the incident, as well as next steps to resolve the situation and possible consequences. A meeting may be arranged with the student(s), parent(s), and the Head of School and/or Division Head to discuss the situation further.
5. Students who bully are in violation of this policy and are subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.
6. HRS may encourage parents or legal guardians of both the bully and the victim to consider private counseling to help address the pattern of unacceptable behavior of the bully and potentially long-term detrimental effects for the victim(s).
Educating Students about Bullying
Teachers will discuss this policy with their students in age-appropriate ways and should assure them that everyone in the community will be treated respectfully and they need not tolerate any form of bullying. The school educates the students, staff, and parents about respect and responsibility to prevent bullying and strives to build healthy relationships and community.
Proactive education includes:
• Conversations focusing on safe and respectful behavior.
• Conversations to increase awareness and knowledge of bullying, standing up for oneself and others; what it means and why it is important to be an ally.
• Teachers designing and implementing lessons and units that integrate social skills, empathy building, and tolerance with academic skills.
• School assemblies include discussions of school-wide behavior expectations.
The Caring School Curriculum teaches core social-emotional skills such as empathy, emotion management, problem solving, self-regulation and executive function skills. This program was adopted in September of 2020.
