diversity, equity & inclusion
our commitment
Raintree School is committed to building a diverse, loving, and vibrant community that makes everyone feel seen, safe, and welcome. We celebrate the inclusion of all races, cultures, sexual identities, gender identities, physical and mental abilities, religions, and socio-economic status in our community. We know that different voices and experiences bring better ideas, more compassion, and a richer culture.
As a Forest School advocating the wonder of Nature, we are called to learn our history, educate others, and take action to make the outdoors a welcoming space for all. Our core values of civic mindfulness, a shared sense of common good, and love for all things wild have been in our bones since inception. We know that anti-racism work will root us deeper than ever into those ideals and transform us into our truest selves. We have a lifetime of work to do but would like to share our progress and learnings.
This page lists the different ways we are striving toward diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in our school. We invite you to hold us accountable! Do you have suggestions, resources, or want to help us with our work? Let us know at info@raintreeschool.org.
anti bias education
We are committed to learning and practicing the Four Pillars of Anti-bias education for Early Childhood to guide our classroom conversations about race, diversity, and justice. Anti-Bias education happens through impromptu class discussions, student-led interests and questions, and teacher-initiated activities. It gives children the tools to develop a healthy self identity, appreciate the differences in others, put language to the unfairness they see in the world, and stand up against injustices.
professional and personal development
Raintree faculty and staff are committed to continuously engaging in our own education and anti-racism work. We will continue with professional development training and readings, examining our own biases and behaviors, and engaging in brave conversations with one another and the wider community. Check out some of our staff's favorite resources and books below!
Adult Books
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How to Raise an Anti-Racist by Ibram X. Kendi
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White Tears Brown Scars by Ruby Hamad
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Me and White Supremacy: Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor by Layla F. Saad
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The Sum of Us by Heather McGee
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Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Children's Books
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An ABC of Equality by Chana Ginelle Ewing
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Sparkle Boy by Leslea Newman
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The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
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We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom
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A Is For All the Things You Are by Anna Forgerson Hindley