Where learning has no limits.
PRESCHOOL 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 education 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.
WHO WE ARE
Hamlin Robinson School (HRS) uses a multisensory structured language approach in helping students in grades 1-8 with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. HRS also serves children ages 3-5 in an early childhood education program. 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) and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS).
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 socio-economic 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 only collect necessary and relevant information about parents and students.
• Confidential information will not be disclosed to other parties without parental approval.
• HRS will strive to keep information about parents and students current and accurate.
• Confidential information is kept secure and only viewed by proper personnel.
• HRS complies with regulations and industry standards about confidential information.
• HRS Privacy policy applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers, and trading partners.
• Preschool staff will not discuss any child with families of other children.
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 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.
PRESCHOOL LICENSING INFORMATION
The Hamlin Robinson Preschool is licensed and monitored by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF). Preschool staff complete initial and ongoing training in compliance with the Washington Administrative Code (WAC). The Licensor’s name and contact information is posted on the Family Information Bulletin Board.
Hamlin Robinson Head of School: Stacy Turner
School phone: 206-763-1167
Head of Early Childhood Education: Kristin Karlson
Preschool phone: 206-763-1167
Preschool cell phone:
Emergency out-of-area contact:
Out of area contact phone:
Address: 1701 20th Ave. S, Seattle, WA 98144
Cross Street: S Massachusetts St.
Licensor:
Licensor phone:
Public Health Nurse:
Public Health Nurse phone:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
• Welcome and Philosophy
• Mission, Vision, and Core Values
• Program Overview
• Hours of Operation and Calendar
• Enrollment and Admissions
• Tuition and Billing
• Pick-Up and Drop-Off
• Communication with Families
• Curriculum and Learning
• Assessment and Developmental Support
• Social-Emotional Learning and Behavior Support
• Health and Safety Policies
• Medication Administration
• Nutrition, Meals, and Food Allergies
• Rest Time
• Outdoor Play and Weather Guidelines
• Field Trips and Transportation
• Technology and Personal Device Expectations
• Clothing and Personal Belongings
• Emergency Preparedness
• Family Partnership and Community Expectations
• Licensing and Compliance
• Confidentiality and Records
• Withdrawal and Disenrollment
WELCOME AND PHILOSOPHY
Welcome to Hamlin Robinson Preschool. We are honored to partner with your family during these important early years of development, discovery, and growth. Our preschool program is designed to provide children with a warm, language-rich, relationship-centered learning environment where they can build confidence, curiosity, independence, and joyful connections to learning.
As part of Hamlin Robinson School, our preschool reflects the school’s commitment to individualized instruction, meaningful relationships, and supporting the whole child. We recognize that every child develops uniquely and deserves an environment that honors their strengths, interests, and learning style.
MISSION, VISION, AND CORE VALUES
TBD
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The preschool program serves children ages 3–4 in a developmentally appropriate, play-based environment designed to support language development, early literacy, social-emotional growth, executive functioning, and school readiness.
Program components include:
• Language-rich classroom experiences
• Early literacy and phonological awareness activities
• Sensory exploration
• Science and STEAM experiences
• Art, music, movement, and dramatic play
• Outdoor learning and gross motor development
• Social-emotional learning and relationship building
• Executive functioning support and classroom routines
Our preschool classroom maintains a teacher-to-child ratio of 1:10, with a maximum class size of 20 children.
Class size, staffing ratios, and classroom groupings comply with DCYF licensing regulations and reflect best practices in early childhood education.
HOURS OF OPERATION AND CALENDAR
The preschool program will operate from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday–Friday. Extended care opportunities are available.
The preschool calendar generally follows the Hamlin Robinson School academic calendar with modifications for preschool programming and staffing needs.
Families will receive:
• Annual school calendar
• School closure dates
• Professional development and in-service closure dates
• Weather closure notifications
• Information about optional summer programming
Regular program hours, extended care hours, and arrival/dismissal windows will be finalized annually and communicated before the start of the school year.
ENROLLMENT AND ADMISSIONS
Enrollment decisions are based on program fit, classroom balance, developmental readiness, and available space.
Required enrollment documentation will include:
• Registration and enrollment forms
• Emergency contact information
• Immunization records
• Health history information
• Developmental information
• Authorized pickup information
• Tuition agreements
The preschool reserves the right to determine whether the program is an appropriate placement for a child based on available supports, classroom needs, and the child’s ability to participate safely and successfully in the program environment.
TUITION AND BILLING
Tuition information, payment schedules, and fees are outlined in the annual enrollment agreement.
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 a late fee of $40. A failed payment fee of $30 will be charged for returned checks. The school charges a late fee of 1% of any past due balances.
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 Blackbaud Tuition Management.
Families experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to contact the school to discuss available options confidentially.
PICKUP AND DROP-OFF
Children must be signed in and out daily by an authorized adult using the Tadpoles app.
Arrival Procedures:
• Preschool drop off is between 7:30-8:00 a.m.
• Drop your child off in front of the Lower School
• Staff will get children from vehicles and take them to classroom
• Children should arrive prepared for the school day.
Dismissal Procedures:
• Only authorized individuals may pick up children.
• Authorized individuals will need to collect their student from the Lower School preschool classroom.
• Identification may be requested.
• Families must notify the school in writing of any pickup changes.
• Late pickup fees may apply.
For safety purposes, children may not be released to individuals who appear impaired or unable to transport the child safely.
COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILIES
Strong partnerships between school and home are essential to children’s success.
Communication methods include:
• Daily digital communication via app
• Email communication from teachers and administration
• Classroom newsletters
• Family conferences
• Documentation panels and portfolios
• myHRS student information system
• 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 Newsletter is a hard-copy and web publication 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.
• 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.
Families are encouraged to communicate openly and respectfully with staff regarding questions, concerns, developmental information, or changes that may impact a child’s experience at school.
CURRICULUM AND LEARNING
At the core of Hamlin Robinson Preschool’s mission and success is the educational program, which is an integrated curriculum including language, pre-reading, pre-math, science, art, music, fine and gross motor skills, and more. Instructional strategies are developed to support children who show indicators for language-based learning differences. The daily schedule is planned to allow for a balance between structured and unstructured activities to support the healthy growth and development of the whole child.
The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) is the largest organization in the world for promoting high-quality early learning for all young children, birth through age 8, by connecting practice, policy, and research. NAEYC advances a diverse, dynamic early childhood profession by supporting those who care for, educate, and work on behalf of young children and their families. This is accomplished through promoting highquality early learning practices which are connected to research, creating succinct position statements, and providing many resources for people who work in the field. The standards for best practice for working with young children ages birth to age 8 are collectively known as Developmentally Appropriate Practice, or DAP. DAP specifically refers to intentional program planning and practices that support development and learning based on:
• Knowledge about child development
• Knowledge of each child’s unique strengths, needs, and interests
• The children’s family backgrounds
• A holistic approach that nurtures growth in all of the child’s developmental domains, e.g., cognitive (intellectual), physical, social and emotional development, as well as artistic/aesthetic development and moral/ethical development. All of these realms are interrelated, and all are important.
Our curriculum reflects developmentally appropriate practice and is designed to support the whole child.
Children learn through:
• Play-based exploration
• Intentional teaching
• Hands-on experiences
• Inquiry and discovery
• Social interaction
• Language-rich environments
• Predictable routines and transitions
The curriculum and classroom environment are developed to support meaningful learning and positive behavior.
• Teachers provide children with the comforts of routine, structure and flexibility to meet their needs.
• Teachers establish respectful, warm and nurturing relationships with children, parents and colleagues.
• Voices are calm. Facial expressions, vocal inflections and body language are positive.
• Problem-solving is positive and proactive.
ASSESSMENT AND DEVELOPMENTAL SUPPORT
Teachers use ongoing observation and documentation to assess children’s development and guide instruction.
Assessment methods may include:
• Observation notes
• Developmental checklists
• Portfolios
• Family conferences
• Screening tools
• Progress reports
If developmental concerns arise, teachers will partner collaboratively with families and the school’s support team and may recommend consultation with outside specialists or community resources.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING AND BEHAVIOR SUPPORT
Young children learn best and behave best in the context of caring relationships, a well-designed classroom environment, and carefully selected toys and learning materials. Children come from many different cultural, ethnic and family backgrounds. Some children may have been compromised by a variety of stressors. Regardless of what children bring to Hamlin Robinson Preschool, they are all welcome with warmth and attention.
Our goals are to help children:
• Develop self-regulation skills
• Learn empathy and cooperation
• Practice communication and problem-solving
• Build confidence and independence
• Understand classroom expectations and routines
BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT AND DISCIPLINE POLICY
Hamlin Robinson Preschool views behavior as communication and approaches guidance through relationshipbuilding, co-regulation, modeling, and problem-solving. Discipline is about learning, not about punishment. Inappropriate behavior is viewed as an opportunity for learning.
Hamlin Robinson Preschool complies with Washington State Law and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Code of Ethical Conduct, which states: Above all we shall not harm children. We shall not participate in practices that are disrespectful, degrading, dangerous, exploitative, intimidating, psychologically damaging, or physically harmful to children. Corporal punishment of any kind, including spanking, slapping, pinching, shaking, etc., is prohibited by law, and is not permitted on school premises by anyone (including parents with their own children). Name-calling, teasing, blaming, embarrassing, frightening, or yelling at children are prohibited. Children are never disciplined for sleep habits, toileting accidents, food consumption issues, or lack of participation in activities.
Rules are age-appropriate, reasonable, clear and fair. Behavior management strategies include redirection, reflective conversations about acceptable alternatives, modeling, coaching, and role-playing. The children are supported to recognize their own feelings and those of others and express their feelings in appropriate ways. Consequences are practical, safe, and logical, and as private as possible. “Time out” is not used. Time away from the group may be used selectively for children who are at risk of harming themselves or others. Quiet time away from the group is used as a last resort, and it will only be long enough for the child to regain control, i.e., ten minutes or less. The child will be placed where they may be observed by staff.
Aggressive physical behavior (fighting, hitting, biting, etc.) is unacceptable, and staff will intervene immediately to maintain safety. Physical restraint (i.e., a teacher holding a child) will only be used if absolutely necessary to ensure safety, and then only for as long as necessary to regain composure. Parents are informed in writing if their child has
been restrained, and a conference may be scheduled to discuss ways to support the child’s needs. If a child’s behavior is so volatile there is a risk of harm to self or others, and it appears unlikely that composure will be regained and sustained within a reasonable length of time, at the discretion of the preschool director or head of school, a parent will be called to pick the child up within 45 minutes. Hamlin Robinson Preschool reserves the right to terminate enrollment if a child’s behavior has not improved in spite of reasonable accommodations.
Corporal punishment of any kind, including spanking, slapping, pinching, shaking, etc., is prohibited by law, and is not permitted on preschool premises by anyone (including parents with their own children). Name-calling, teasing, blaming, embarrassing, frightening, or yelling at children are also prohibited.
If a child’s behavior is frequently problematic, especially if safety is a concern, the director will schedule a meeting with the teacher and parents to brainstorm ideas as a team and, if appropriate, to create a behavior plan. If reasonable accommodations are not successful, the next steps might include: Request the parent’s consent to have the child observed in the classroom by an outside specialist; request the parent or to have the child evaluated by a pediatrician or other specialist; reduce the child’s schedule to fewer days per week and/or fewer hours per day; send the child home for the day. If reasonable accommodations have been implemented and an acceptable amount of sustained improvement (as determined by the preschool director and the Head of School) and/or, if the child’s parent(s) are unwilling or unable to cooperate with the staff, the child may be dis-enrolled from the program, with or without notice or refund of unused tuition. The final decision will be made by the Head of Early Childhood Education and the Head of School.
Hamlin Robinson Preschool has a strict confidentiality policy, and staff refrain from discussions about any child with anyone other than that child’s parents. They do not disclose the identity of the child who has hurt another child. Parents are expected to respect this policy. Any questions or concerns should be taken to the director or the head of school.
Behavior support strategies may include redirection, calming spaces, visual supports, modeling, and collaborative problem-solving with families.
RECOGNIZING AND REPORTING CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT
Anyone who works with children in the state of Washington is legally designated as a legally mandated reporter of suspected child abuse or neglect. (WAC 388-150-480) This means that if a staff person has reasonable cause to suspect that child abuse or neglect may have occurred, she/he will document those concerns and immediately take them to the Director, the Head of School, or the designated decision-maker in their absence; Child Protective Services 1-800-609-8764 (or the police if it is determined that the child is in immediate peril) will be contacted and a report will be made. When a report is made, the licensor will be notified, and documentation will be stored in the Preschool office. Parents are not informed by preschool staff if report has been made to Child Protective Services.
EXPECTATIONS REGARDING PARENT BEHAVIOR
Parents are expected to behave in a positive, courteous manner while on school property, including the parking area. The following behaviors are prohibited:
• Physical or verbal discipline of your own child
• Physical or verbal discipline of other children
• Threatening staff and/or other parents
• The use of profanity and/or threatening/obscene gestures
• Quarreling with other parents or staff
• Noncompliance with policies designed to protect the safety of the school
Hamlin Robinson Preschool will not release a child to any parent or other authorized adult who appears to be impaired. In the event this appears to be the case, a telephone call will be made to another parent or authorized adult, emergency contact person, local police and/or the Washington State Department of Child Protective Services.
HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICIES
The health and safety of children and staff are top priorities.
Sick children must be kept at home. A parent will be notified to pick up a child who becomes ill at school within one hour. Illnesses are recorded on an illness report form. A notification will be posted in a visible location if children have been exposed to communicable disease. Children will not be permitted to attend when any of the following symptoms are present:
• Fever of 100.4º F accompanied by other symptoms or a fever of 101° with no other symptoms. Only digital thermometers with single use covers over the thermometer are used at the school.
• Vomiting on two or more occasions within the past twenty-four hours
• Diarrhea with 2 or more loose or watery stools more than normal for the child in a 24-hour period; or any blood or mucus in stool
• Rash that is not caused by sunburn or allergic reactions or an oozing sore that cannot be covered
• Eye discharge or pink eye – prior to 24 hours of antibiotic therapy
• Open or oozing sores, unless properly covered and treated with antibiotics for 24 hours
• Fatigue or lethargy that prevents participation in regular activities
• Lice – the child can return after receiving treatment
• Scabies – the child can return after receiving treatment
Children must be symptom-free for 24 hours (without the use of medication to reduce fever, stop diarrhea, or mask other symptoms) before they may return to school (except for lice or scabies, when the child may return immediately after treatment). The exception to this shall be if a licensed health care provider documents the child has been examined, is not contagious, and is well enough to participate.
IMMUNIZATIONS
Each child is required by law to be immunized for DTP or DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis/Whooping Cough), IPV or OPV (Polio), MMR (Measles [Rubeola], Mumps, Rubella), Hepatitis B, Hib, and PCV. All children who attend a licensed preschool in Washington State are required to receive the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine; children who have already had chickenpox will not be required to receive the vaccine. Children not fully immunized need to complete the missing immunizations prior to the first day of attendance. In the event that parents have personal, religious, philosophical or medical reasons for not immunizing their children, they must submit a completed Certificate of Exemption which has been signed by a health care provider. These children will be excluded from preschool in the event of an outbreak for any of the diseases which can be prevented by immunization.
ALLERGIES AND ASTHMA
A complete list of currently enrolled children and their allergies are posted in the classroom with a cover sheet for confidentiality purposes. Staff are expected to familiarize themselves with this list and make the necessary accommodation.
• An individual written health plan will be created for children who have allergies and/or chronic medical conditions. The health care plan will be kept in the child’s file. Parents will receive an injury/illness report if the plan is implemented. If an allergic reaction is categorized as severe, staff follow the emergency protocol indicated by the health care provider.
• Rescue medications such as asthma inhalers and Epi-Pens are stored in the classroom Grab-and-Go bags which are taken whenever the children leave the classroom.
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL HEALTH NEEDS
Hamlin Robinson Preschool welcomes children with medical conditions if we are able to meet their needs. We make good faith efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to support the child to participate in the program as fully as possible.
MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION
Hamlin Robinson Preschool does not administer any kind of prescription or over-the-counter medication without a medication consent form which has been filled out completely, signed and dated by the child’s parent. All medications (prescriptions, over-the-counter, sunscreen, etc.) must be in the original container, labeled with the child’s first and last name, and unexpired. Consent covers the duration of the illness only, except:
• Consent for sunscreen, body lotion etc. must be renewed every six months.
• Consent for medication for chronic conditions must be renewed monthly. An individual health plan will be kept on file for chronic health conditions.
All medication, including medication sold over-the-counter, must be in its original container with the prescription label featuring the child’s name, date prescribed and date of expiration, and the physician’s instructions. No medication will be administered if it has expired.
Medications are administered in the office (except for rescue medications). The date, time and dosage of medication
given will be recorded on the medication form along with the signature of the staff administering the medication. Staff will report and document any observed side effects on the child’s individual medication form. Staff will also provide a written explanation if medication had not been given as directed. A copy will be given to the parent, and a copy will remain in the child’s file.
Medications will be stored in the preschool office with the exception of rescue medications (inhalers, Epi-Pens, etc.), which are stored in the Grab-and Go Bag. Topical medications are kept separate from oral medications. Controlled substances are stored in the office in a locked container, tracked on the individual medication recording form and capsules/pills are counted daily. Refrigerated medications are stored in a locked box in the refrigerator, separate from food. Unused medicationswill be returned to parents.
NUTRITION, MEALS, AND FOOD ALLERGIES
The preschool supports healthy eating habits and safe food practices.
Food Allergies and Dietary
Restrictions
It is very important for parents to notify the preschool about any allergies or special dietary needs.
Meals and Snack Information
• Food is offered at intervals between 2 and 3 hours apart unless the children are asleep.
• Children bring their lunches from home. Licensing rules require lunch brought from home include to meet USDA CACFP meal requirements*.
• Teachers sit with the children and model table manners and good eating habits.
• Staff may not consume hot beverages in classroom. Staff will model healthy eating habits by not consuming pop or other non-nutritional beverages in the presence of children.
• Children have free access to drinking water throughout the day, indoors and outdoors (using individual reusable water bottles or disposable cups).
*Hamlin Robinson Preschool is required to supplement food brought from home that does not meet the nutrition guidelines listed above. A fee of $______________ per meal will be charged.
Food Brought From Home to be Shared With the Class
It is a licensing regulation that any food brought into the preschool to be shared with other children must be storebought, prepackaged, and include an ingredients label. No homemade products are allowed.
REST TIME
Children are provided a daily opportunity for rest in accordance with licensing regulations and developmental needs.
• Children have the opportunity to nap each day. They are expected to rest quietly for at least 30 minutes, after which they are provided with quiet activities while others are sleeping.
• Blankets or clothing are not used to cover any portion of a child’s head or face while sleeping.
• Nap mats are separated by at least 18 inches.
• Mats are not located next to windows.
• Nothing is stored above sleeping children unless it is securely attached to the wall.
OUTDOOR PLAY AND WEATHER GUIDELINES
Outdoor play is an important part of the preschool program and occurs daily whenever weather conditions permit.
Families should provide:
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Rain gear and boots (we recommend a rainsuit, such as a Tuffo, and rainboots stay at school to be prepared for all weather)
• Seasonal layers
• Extra clothing
Outdoor learning supports:
• Gross motor development
• Social interaction
• Sensory exploration
• Emotional regulation
• Nature-based learning experience
FIELD TRIPS AND TRANSPORTATION
Field trips and walking excursions may be incorporated into the curriculum.
Families will receive:
• Advance notification
• Permission forms
• Transportation details
• Safety procedures
Transportation arrangements will comply with licensing and safety regulations.
TECHNOLOGY AND PERSONAL DEVICE EXPECTATIONS
Technology use in preschool classrooms is limited, intentional, and developmentally appropriate.
Children should not bring personal electronic devices to school unless specifically authorized by staff.
Families are asked to avoid cell phone use during arrival and dismissal to support safety and engagement with children.
CLOTHING AND PERSONAL BELONGINGS
Children should wear comfortable clothing suitable for active play, art experiences, and outdoor exploration.
Families should provide:
• 2 full sets of extra clothing (pants, shirts, underwear, socks)
• 1 extra pair of shoes
• Weather-appropriate outdoor wear (coats, rainsuit, boots, etc.)
• Water bottle
• Small blanket
• 1 small stuffed animal for rest time (optional)
• Wet bag to send home soiled clothing
All items should be labeled with your child’s first and last name. The school is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items brought from home.
To help maintain a calm, consistent classroom environment and prevent items from being lost or damaged, toys from home should remain at home unless specifically requested by teachers for a classroom activity or special sharing opportunity. Children may bring one small stuffed animal or comfort item for rest time if desired.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Hamlin Robinson Preschool maintains written emergency preparedness procedures in compliance with DCYF licensing requirements. All families will receive a copy of our full disaster plan.
Emergency procedures include:
• Fire drills
• Earthquake drills
• Shelter-in-place procedures
• Lockdown procedures
• Evacuation plans
•
• Emergency communication systems
• Emergency supplies
FAMILY PARTNERSHIP AND COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS
We value respectful and collaborative relationships with families.
Families are expected to:
• Communicate respectfully with staff and other families.
• Support school safety procedures.
• Keep emergency contact information current.
• Partner with staff regarding developmental or behavioral concerns.
• Follow school policies and community expectations.
Harassment, threatening behavior, or disruptive conduct toward staff, students, or families will not be tolerated.
Policy Regarding Staff Relationships With Parents of Currently Enrolled Children
The preschool staff are expected to refrain from engaging in personal relationships with parents of children currently enrolled in the program. This includes babysitting, social media, or any activities that could lead to a conflict of interest.
LICENSING AND COMPLIANCE
Hamlin Robinson Preschool operates in compliance with Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) licensing regulations.
Families may request:
• Licensing information
• Inspection reports
• Health policies
• Emergency preparedness plans
• Program policies
The preschool complies with mandatory reporting requirements regarding suspected child abuse or neglect.
CONFIDENTIALITY AND RECORDS
Student and family information is treated confidentially and maintained in accordance with applicable laws and school policies.
Families are responsible for ensuring that contact, medical, and emergency information remains current throughout the school year.
WITHDRAWAL AND DISENROLLMENT
Families planning to withdraw from the preschool program must provide written notice according to enrollment agreement requirements.
The preschool reserves the right to discontinue enrollment if:
• Tuition obligations are not met.
• The program cannot safely or appropriately meet a child’s needs.
• Family conduct disrupts the school community.
• Licensing or safety concerns arise.
SUPPORTING HAMLIN ROBINSON SCHOOL
Every gift to Hamlin Robinson School is a tangible endorsement of our collective mission – to ignite the academic and creative potential of students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. 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.
Hamlin Robinson School relies on charitable gifts to provide financial aid, professional development opportunities, capital improvements, program enhancements, and more. Tuition covers approximately 92% of the operating costs at Hamlin Robinson School. Fundraising dollars supplement the budget, ensuring our program remains strong and keep tuition as affordable as possible for everyone.
HRS Annual Fund
The annual fund campaign runs from July 1 through June 30 annually. 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 Auction
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 auction. Each family is asked to procure or donate, participate as volunteers, and/or attend the event. 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.
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 180-40-275. 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.