diversity, equity & inclusion
our commitment
At Raintree School, we know that diverse voices and experiences bring better ideas, more compassion, and a richer culture. We wish to grow into a vibrant community that makes people of all backgrounds feel seen, safe, and welcome.
In an early childhood forest school, this is built in small daily moments through impromptu conversations, stories, projects, forest time, and community engagement. There’s a lifetime of work to do, but we would like to share our progress and learnings here. You're invited to hold us accountable in this work to build a culture of belonging, diversity, equity, and inclusion! Do you have suggestions, resources, or want to help? Let us know at info@raintreeschool.org.
anti bias education
The preschool years are an essential time to support children as they develop their identities, notice differences in people, and learn to ask questions about race, gender, cultures, and family structures. The four pillars of Anti-Bias Education (Identity, Diversity, Justice, and Activism), designed specifically for the early childhood years, create a helpful framework for parents and educators to engage in these conversations. At Raintree, these pillars show up through stories, activities, projects, and impromptu class discussions. Below are a few articles with more information:
The Importance of Anti-Bias Curriculum in Preschool Understanding Anti-Bias Curriculum
Below are a few of our favorite ways to bring discussions of Identity, Diversity, Justice, and Activism into everyday life at Raintree:
projects
Semester-long, student-led class projects are a centerpiece of Raintree’s pedagogy. They empower young learners to make sense of and create impact in the world around them. Projects often aim to solve problems or injustices in their community. Stepping into their own power, students hone their empathy for others and find ways to create epic change in the world.
the peace process
The Peace Process refers to Raintree’s social-emotional practices—a crucial part of early childhood development. Beginning with a conviction that we all belong to and have an integral role in the community, the Peace Process invites all Raintree friends to contribute daily to our collective well-being. Students also practice mindful problem-solving techniques to help them recognize their own emotions, practice empathy for others, and make amends when someone has been hurt.
family recipe days
The Raintree kitchen uses food to celebrate culture by sharing diverse dishes from across the world. We especially love it when parents, grandparents, or staff members join the kitchen to share a unique family recipe. On these special days, our “guest chef” teaches Raintree their family dish and traditions, perhaps involving a class activity, and eats lunch with us. Family Recipe Days allow students to develop their family identities and learn about other cultures.
self portraits
Self-portrait artwork is a favorite activity many classes use when introducing the concept of identities. Whether painting, collaging, or tracing full-body cutouts on large paper, students examine their image and consider what makes them unique inside and out.
diversity within books
A diverse bookshelf means every child sees themselves in stories and learns about other cultures, families, and ways of being. Here are a few of Raintree’s top picks:
personal development for adults
The best way to support children as they learn about diversity and inclusion is to learn more yourself! Model for your children what it looks like to lean into discomfort, be curious, and keep learning. Here are a few of our staff favorites for adults learning about justice and liberation.
Books