Rafael Hernandez School will create a safe and structured environment where students and staff, along with parents, guardians, and other stakeholders, come together as a community of life-long learners and leaders. Our school will foster individual differences and will be committed to providing an education of excellence that meets each student’s interests, abilities, and needs within a common curricular framework and reflects and promotes an understanding of, and appreciation for diversity in our community as an integral part of school life. Rafael Hernandez challenges each student to develop intellectual independence, creativity and curiosity, and a sense of responsibility toward others both within the School and in the Community at large. We will strive to think critically and creatively to encourage good decision-making strategies to promote a sense of teamwork and cooperation. By learning how to utilize the knowledge and tools necessary to confidently meet challenges, our students will be empowered to reach their potential, as well as become respectful and responsible citizen leaders for the future.