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Our Waldorf-Inspired curriculum is based on the developmental stages of the child and the understanding that the key to developing a critical-thinking mind is to encourage an active and creative imagination. Therefore, the curriculum is carefully matched to foster the healthy growth of the whole child – intellectually, physically, and emotionally. This fosters an excitement for learning while guiding and nourishing the growing child.
Daily Schedule All grade-level classes begin promptly at 8:30 am each academic day: Tuesday through Friday. Class Dismissal Times Per Grade
To offer a gentle transition through the grade levels, dismissal times vary as follows: 1st Grade: 1:30 pm 2nd Grade: 2:30 pm 3rd-7th Grade: 3:00 pm |
Sixth Grade Physics Block
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Main Lesson
Teacher-created chalkboard art
Student-created main lesson books
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The class teacher integrates a broad wealth of material into a main lesson block in such a way that subject matter will be taken up in depth. The class teacher works with a consistent pattern of:
The curriculum is delivered thematically. For example, when a class studies California History, we may introduce math, science, drama, music, or field trips to support the main lesson content. California History is commonly taught in a similar thematic manner in many private and public schools throughout our state. However, Waldorf-inspired curriculum presents each main lesson in this way. Because the material is presented in this manner, the student is more actively engaged and their power of recall is heightened. Socratic methods of inquiry are used to teach the child how to think for themselves, to consider, and therefore to have an investment in the material being presented. To document their learning, the grades students write and illustrate their own books. |
Special Subjects
The Waldorf-inspired curriculum also calls for a broad spectrum of enrichment subjects that weave through the weekly schedule. Our special subject classes are taught either by the Class Teacher or a Specialty Teacher.
Special Subjects Offered Throughout our Grades:
Special Subjects Offered Throughout our Grades:
- Movement (Physical Education)
- Handwork
- Gardening
- Art/Drawing
- Painting
- Woodwork - 6th/7th Grade Only
Coming Soon - Enrichment Courses for Grades Students
Interested in possible enrichment courses for your child? Email us with your interest and the age(s) of your child(ren) for more information about future enrichment classes to be held on our campus.
class placement and application process
In Waldorf-inspired education, due to the age-appropriate developmental approach children enter first grade later than other schools. This provides the child with greater readiness for learning both academically and emotionally throughout their education.
An application is required for enrollment. The application is reviewed by the teacher and next steps may include gathering more information and/or scheduling a meeting with the child and their parents. In that meeting, the teacher will first meet the child and engage them in activities to help assess their placement. In addition, the teacher will present the class curriculum and structure, discuss the child’s social and emotional development, and answer any questions with the parents. Visiting days to the classroom may be scheduled prior to enrolling.
The respective age and grade level for each class are as follows:
1st Grade: 7 years old, or nearly 7
2nd Grade: 8 years old, or nearly 8
3rd Grade: 9 years old, or nearly 9
4th-7th Grade: 10 – 13 years old, respectively
For middle school children whose ages fall slightly outside of the cut-off dates, teachers may further assess them to determine individual placement.
An application is required for enrollment. The application is reviewed by the teacher and next steps may include gathering more information and/or scheduling a meeting with the child and their parents. In that meeting, the teacher will first meet the child and engage them in activities to help assess their placement. In addition, the teacher will present the class curriculum and structure, discuss the child’s social and emotional development, and answer any questions with the parents. Visiting days to the classroom may be scheduled prior to enrolling.
The respective age and grade level for each class are as follows:
1st Grade: 7 years old, or nearly 7
2nd Grade: 8 years old, or nearly 8
3rd Grade: 9 years old, or nearly 9
4th-7th Grade: 10 – 13 years old, respectively
For middle school children whose ages fall slightly outside of the cut-off dates, teachers may further assess them to determine individual placement.
