The Waldorf curriculum is broad and comprehensive. Science and math, writing, literature, history, geography, music, dance and theater are not simply subjects to be read about and tested. They are experienced. Through these experiences, Waldorf students cultivate their intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual capacities to become individuals certain of their paths and ready to be of service to the world.

Three Cedars Waldorf School provides a rich curriculum for grade school students, encompassing a wide variety of subjects and activities, moving at a pace in harmony with the different stages of child development. Fine and practical arts, music, and movement are well-integrated into our strong academic program.

The focus each morning is the two-hour lesson where reading, writing, math, history, geography and science are taught. Students design, write, and illustrate their own books about each subject. The uniqueness of each child is appreciated and encouraged, and learning happens naturally and rhythmically, in a non-competitive environment. Written evaluations of student progress and parent-teacher conferences provide thorough feed-back for parents.

Class and Subject Teachers

Often, the class teacher and students progress together from first grade through middle school, providing an opportunity for forging deep, meaningful relationships between the students, their families, and the teacher. Other teachers add to the weekly rhythm by sharing their specialties in Japanese and Spanish language instruction, string instruments, vocal music, handwork, and the unique movement art of Eurythmy.

Middle School

Though there is a great deal of continuity carried forth from the lower grades, the middle school student is further challenged academically and artistically in an age-appropriate way. Collaboration, confidence and creativity are fostered, while healthy social relationships thrive. With the onset of puberty, students are anxious to step out into the world. Enhanced programs of arts and academics bring the outside world into the classroom, and outdoor experiences become gradually more challenging.

Students participate in multi-day trips such as biking, hiking and kayaking, bringing hands-on experiences linked to the academic curriculum. In eighth grade, all students complete a comprehensive research project, complete with written report, artistic project, display, and oral presentation to the school community.

The balanced middle school program at Three Cedars Waldorf School fosters confident students well-prepared for the challenges of high school, through academics, the arts, outdoor education, research projects and extra-curricular activities. Social relationships bloom as students refine their ability to work together as a collaborative team, and to respect each other's individuality and diversity.

Thriving in Today's World

Our students are educated so they may go out into the world ready to meet life’s challenges with knowledge, courage, enthusiasm, creativity and a solid sense of how to think and reason. While some effects of a good education are measurable at the time, many of the most important facets are planted as seeds that will continue to grow and bear fruit in later years and throughout adulthood.

The focus each morning is the two-hour main lesson where the academic subjects are taught in three or four-week blocks. Subjects are brought alive by the class teachers’ skill in oral story-telling and presentation, and by integrating the arts into each subject to deepen and enliven the students’ understanding.