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Roots of Empathy in Washington State

History

Roots of Empathy launched in Seattle, Washington in 2007.

Roots of Empathy launched in Whatcom County, Washington in 2022. See here what the Bellingham School District has to say about Roots of Empathy.

Research

  • 89% of students reported that if they saw a friend being bullied or treated meanly, they would help them – 2019 Annual Program Evaluation Report
    Greater Seattle Area
  • 87% of teachers strongly agreed or agreed that as a result of Roots of Empathy, students are more inclusive or accepting of others who are different from themselves (including culture, race, special needs, gender, etc…) – 2019 Annual Program Evaluation Report Greater Seattle Area
  • 87% of teachers strongly agreed or agreed that as a result of Roots of Empathy, students are more able to understand other people’s points of view – 2019 Annual Program Evaluation Report Greater Seattle Area
  • 100% of teachers feel that the Roots of Empathy program supports the school’s curriculum – 2019 Annual Program Evaluation Report Greater Seattle Area

What Washington State teachers and students say

“Roots of Empathy can teach the world about understanding others feelings. Roots of Empathy can also teach the world that when you see someone being bullied, don’t just stand there, help to stop that bullying. It is important to care for others.”

Student, Grade 3Bellevue

“What can Roots of Empathy teach the world? 'Everyone has feelings and I learned a lot about myself and my friends and baby's.'”

Student,Grade 3Shoreline

“When a student was struggling in terms of behavior, it was helpful to have Roots of Empathy to remind students of what we’ve been working on. I was able to use it to help the student calm down and reflect on their behavior and what steps to take next.”

Teacher, Grade 2Bothell

“What was the impact of Roots of Empathy? 'Oh so much! Obviously empathy! But also the ability to sit back and learn about yourself and others, adults and children. Also it teaches you how rapidly babies change and how (as a parent), I've missed so many incremental changes because I'm down in the weeds! Today, I realized just how far we've come together (baby, as parents, the children in the class) in an amazingly short time.”

Parent, Grade 2Seattle
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