Grade school children are inspired deeply by their feelings and the beauty of the world around them. They respond powerfully to the tools and methods used in Waldorf Education, which engages their feelings through music, art, movement, and drama, and enlivens learning through in-depth study of a topic using an experiential, hands-on approach. Imagination plays an important role in the early grades, helping the child to develop an inner experience of the subject matter. Social, emotional and practical skills are emphasized as well as academic skills.

Each day in the elementary school begins with a main lesson of 1 1/2 hours, during which the class teacher presents the current topic artistically, descriptively, and dramatically and leads the children in activities relating to the subject matter (see Curriculum Grade by Grade). After a brief snack time and recess, the Special Subject classes begin, in 40 minute periods: Handwork, Music, German, Spanish, Physical Education, and in the Middle School, Language Arts, Math, Chorus and Practical Arts (see Special Subjects). The children create their own “textbooks”, or main lesson books, which are a reflection of what they have learned presented artistically (see Waldorf Education section).

• Grades 1-4 start at 8:30 a.m.
• Grades 5-8 start at 8:15 a.m.
• All grades end at 3:15 pm.

“Coming from 5 years at public school into Waldorf I thought would be a hard transition for her, but it has been nothing but pleasant and peaceful.  Even as a parent, it feels different. When I walk on campus, people know you and recognize you…they talk to you and encourage you.” - EWS Parent