Four smiling teenagers standing outdoors on a grassy field, with two girls wearing green hoodies that say 'Mountain School,' and a girl in a blue athletic shirt and shorts. The group has arms around each other, and in the background are trees, a red barn, and a cloudy sky.

Belonging, Equity, and Inclusion

Our Commitment to Belonging and Equity

At the Mountain School, belonging, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of our mission. We believe that caring for ourselves, each other, and this place means creating a community where every student feels seen, valued, and supported. We regularly reflect on our practices, curriculum, and campus culture to ensure that The Mountain School remains a place where all students, regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic background, and identity, can thrive.

We understand that this work is ongoing. Each semester, students, faculty, and alumni come together to help us improve, building on a foundation of care, curiosity, and accountability.

Affinity Groups and Identity-Based Support

Affinity groups at The Mountain School provide students with a space to connect, reflect, and build community around shared experiences and identities. Each semester, we offer groups for:

  • BIPOC students (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color)

  • LGBTQ+ students

  • First-generation and/or low-income (FGLI) students

Additional groups, such as those for students with disabilities, from divorced families, or with specific faith backgrounds, may form by student request. Each group meets regularly with faculty support and is provided funding for activities and events on and off campus. These spaces have become vital sources of connection, empowerment, and understanding for many students.

Affirming Gender and Sexuality

The Mountain School is committed to a campus culture that affirms all genders and sexual orientations. LGBTQ+ students have access to affinity group leaders, the Community & Belonging team, and mentorship opportunities with alumni who share their identities.

Students may request all-gender or single-gender housing, choose their names and pronouns, and—if desired—work with staff to create a confidential gender support plan. Through partnerships such as the Vermont Diversity Health Project (VDHP), students can also connect with gender-affirming medical providers.

Supporting Students of Color

Located in rural Vermont, The Mountain School recognizes the unique experiences of BIPOC students in a predominantly white state. Our BIPOC community is supported through dedicated affinity spaces, cultural celebrations, and mentorship opportunities. Funding is provided for off-campus events and activities, and BIPOC students are encouraged to bring their cultures and identities into every aspect of campus life.

The Director of Admissions & Enrollment works closely with prospective students of color to provide an honest perspective about life and learning at The Mountain School, ensuring that every student arrives prepared and supported.

Two women working at a desk with a laptop, one showing the screen to the other, near a window with green trees outside.

Health, Well-Being, and Academic Support

A strong sense of belonging depends on feeling healthy, safe, and supported. The Mountain School employs a full-time school counselor, nurse, and learning support faculty who work together as part of the Student Support Team.

Students can schedule individual sessions or coordinate specialized care as needed. The team meets weekly to ensure that each student’s emotional, physical, and academic needs are met throughout the semester.

Student Support Team
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Community Seminar: Learning Through Dialogue

Community Seminar is where the Mountain School’s values come to life. Early in the semester, students explore identity, communication, and accountability. As the semester progresses, students and faculty co-lead discussions on topics ranging from campus culture to national and global issues. This evolving conversation helps every member of our community grow in empathy and understanding.

Group of people, including children and adults, gathered on a wooden floor, working together to create a natural craft using green leaves and fern fronds.

Accountability and Restorative Practice

Belonging is built on trust, and trust requires accountability. The Mountain School is committed to restorative practices that acknowledge harm and create space for repair. We believe that every member of our community—students, faculty, and staff—shares responsibility in sustaining a culture of care, honesty, and growth.

Closing Note

Our work toward belonging, equity, and inclusion is continuous. We are proud of the progress we’ve made and open to the challenges that remain. Together, we strive to make The Mountain School a place where every person feels they truly belong.