Main Lesson
Starting in first grade, Waldorf students have a “class teacher” who will stay with them through fifth, and frequently even eighth, grade. The core curriculum taught by the class teacher is supported by subject teachers. The core curriculum and the subject classes are aligned with the students’ development as they grow.
Each day, Main Lesson begins with movement and rhythmic activities such as recitation, singing, or playing the recorder, followed by a review of the previous day’s work and a presentation of new material. The students give artistic expression to all Main Lesson subjects – including mathematics and science – through drawing, painting, modeling, or sculpting.
Activities may vary from day to day or week to week according to what the teacher feels is necessary to engage the children. The topics for the main lessons are chosen to suit a child’s development stage.
These innate capacities – wonder, reverence, attention, curiosity, confidence – form the solid foundation on which the child builds their academic future
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.
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
- Art
- Social Emotional Learning
- Music
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.
Subject Lessons
Morning Main Lesson is followed by subject classes such as German, Music, Gardening, and Gym. These classes are taught by Specialty Teachers who are experts in their subject areas. While Main Lesson provides in-depth exploration of subjects in blocks of four to six weeks, subject classes are run through the year.
Curriculum by Grade
Starting in first grade, Waldorf students have a “class teacher” who will stay with them through fifth, and frequently even eighth, grade. The core curriculum taught by the class teacher is supported by subject teachers. The core curriculum and the subject classes are aligned with the students’ development as they grow.
Activities and Student Support
In the Lower School the majority of student activities take place within the context of the class under the direction of the class teacher. These include field trips, camping trips, swim parties, hot lunch fundraisers,festivals, and other celebrations. Parents assist with many of these activities, providing transportation, chaperons, and general support.
