In grades one through three, Waldorf education allows the innate human capacities of each child to develop through a holistic approach to learning. These innate capacities – wonder, reverence, attention, curiosity, confidence – form the solid foundation on which the child builds their academic future. In grades four and five children become increasingly conscious of themselves as members of a community; they have a growing curiosity about the world and their place in it.

Students make “main lesson books” for their core curriculum subjects. Under the teacher’s guidance, they create their own beautiful and unique textbooks to reflect their learning. This begins quite simply in grade one and by grade eight their books form detailed and valuable references to the subjects they have studied.

In grades six through eight we introduce a team sports program, join with area Waldorf schools for track meets, encourage social interaction through middle school dances, offer electives in our music and language programs, and encourage more autonomy for such activities as fundraisers and class meetings. The class teacher continues to present the core curriculum and to offer guidance to the class. Science and math main lesson blocks are generally taught by the middle school math and science specialist.