Description of this type of school/schooling method:
The Waldorf School was established in 1919 based on the writings and belief system of Rudolph Steiner. Steiner believed that children evolved in three stages: pre-k and kindergarten; 1st-8th grade; and high school.

Educators are trained for two years to teach at a Waldorf school.

In pre-k and kindergarten, children are nurtured physically, emotionally and mentally. The focus is on creative play and work based activities for learning.

In 1st through 8th grade, the student usually stays with one teacher for the basic subjects. The class teacher is there to provide stability and guidance. Each child is given the opportunity to discover his or her individual talents. The teacher creates a new, exciting curricula each year to enhance the students?desire to grow and learn.

In high school, students are introduced to a strong academic curriculum. Teachers encourage students to have worldly views when gathering information and to integrate daily practical reasoning to their findings. The arts play a big part in the development of self-expression, allowing the student to see everything as part of a whole.

Advantages:
Highly individualized attention

Less pressure on early reading

Innovative curricula

Specially trained teachers

Challenges:
Tuition costs

Transportation to and from school

Active role in Waldorf ?mmunity? commitment to school meetings, committees and projects

Specific curriculum that includes some spiritual influences

Is a single teacher from 1st?8th grade a good choice for your child?

Tuition/Costs:
$5,000/year or less
$10,000/year or less

Other comments regarding tuition/costs:
Some Waldorf schools may have a tuition less than $5000--usually this is for pre-k and kindergarten classes.

Usually, Waldorf schools average about $5500 a year (keep in mind that this is an average--if you live in New York or Los Angeles, you might pay more).

Most Waldorf schools are culturally diverse and have assistance programs for financial aid and sibling discounts.

Additional comments or suggestions:
A helpful site to get a general overview of a Waldorf school: http://www.capeannwaldorf.org/caws-faq.html