Haring Center

The University of Washington Haring Center for Inclusive Education provides early childhood education to children with and without disabilities, conducts leading-edge research to advance inclusive learning, and trains education professionals in proven practices to develop every child’s potential. The essential support of our generous donors creates inclusive communities that empower all children to learn, play and grow together.

It is a pivotal time for advancing new discoveries in early learning and we are working to chart a course for the future. Together, we will ensure that children with disabilities receive the best foundation for a lifetime of learning and infinite possibilities. Together, we will build a boundless future. For children, for Washington, for the world.

  • Recent News

    • Meet Jessica Margarita Aguilar, a first-year graduate student in Early Childhood Special Education and a passionate educator at the Haring Center. Inspired by her experiences with inclusive education, Jessica is dedicated to helping children of all abilities thrive. She loves building connections with her students and believes in the power of fostering inclusive, supportive learning environments. In this Q&A, Jessica shares her journey to teaching and offers advice for future educators. How did you decide you wanted to become a teacher, and what do you most like about teaching? My journey to becoming a teacher started during my junior year of high school when a family member who is a translator for Spanish-speaking families introduced me to the UW Haring Center EEU by telling me how they went on an observation with a family she was supporting. Learning about its inclusive approach to education sparked my interest and made me seriously consider teaching as a career after high school. Before this, I was thinking about working with children in other aspects like pediatrics or being a therapist. When I first began volunteering in a special education setting, the experience deepened my passion for working with diverse learners. As a first-generation college student and a Latina, I’ve witnessed how education can transform lives, create opportunities, and foster inclusion or do the opposite. I saw firsthand how a supportive or unsupportive environment could empower or discourage a child. A huge deciding factor was how much I love teaching. Especially as I learned to build authentic connections with my students and watch them achieve milestones, big or small. Each day, they remind me of the joy of learning, the beauty of celebrating differences, and the power of a truly inclusive community. What is your favorite thing about teaching at the Haring Center? My favorite thing about teaching at the Haring Center is being part of a truly inclusive and innovative educational environment. The EEU is built on a strong foundation of inclusion, where children with and without disabilities learn and grow together. From the moment you walk into the classroom, you can feel the warmth and positivity radiating from the students, staff, and families. I love how our community not only values every child but also emphasizes the importance of partnering with families, ensuring they feel supported and included in their child’s educational journey. Watching students interact and learn from one another in this nurturing setting is incredibly rewarding. It’s a place where every child is encouraged to shine. Being part of the Haring Center has also been an amazing learning experience for me, as I continue to grow both as a teacher and as an advocate for inclusive education. Do you have any advice for other students who are interested in teaching but not sure where to start? For students interested in teaching but unsure where to begin, my advice is to start gaining hands-on experience as soon as possible, especially in the specific age group or specialization that interests you. Whether it’s volunteering at a local school, assisting in a special education classroom, or participating in mentorship programs, working directly with children can give you invaluable insight into what teaching involves. If you’re drawn to a particular subject, grade level, or teaching approach, seek out opportunities that align with those interests. For example, if you’re curious about early childhood or inclusive education, look for programs or organizations that focus on those areas. Connecting with mentors and educators in your field can also provide guidance and open doors to new experiences. Teaching is a journey, and starting small is perfectly fine. The more you engage in the classroom or educational settings early on, the better you’ll understand your passion and direction within the field.

    • Sen. Wellman tours UW’s Haring Center for Inclusive Education A recent article in The Seattle Times highlights the urgent need for more early childhood educators in Washington state and the challenges posed by low wages in the field. The Haring Center for Inclusive Education continues to play a pivotal role in advocating for equitable pay and inclusive practices to support educators and families alike. Read the full article to learn more about the current landscape and the ongoing efforts to strengthen early learning systems

    • In a workshop space brimming with inventive tools and metal walls that seemed to pulse with creativity, Dr. Kathleen Artman Meeker, director of the Haring Center, and a diverse group of educators plunged into an exhilarating challenge. It was 2022, and the setting was Reggio Emilia, Italy, where they participated in ateliers during a study abroad trip. The task was to transform an assortment of everyday materials into imaginative constructs. The room buzzed with a palpable mix of excitement and uncertainty as participants navigated the boundaries of their creativity. Read full story