Thoughts on the East Bay Waldorf School?

Hello,

I have two children at the school currently and we have been there for 2 years. It's a wonderful school and wonderful community and we feel very blessed to be there. The early childhood teachers are truly incredible. We did not go to preschool at EBWS so I can't speak for those teachers, although one of them was my child's kinder teacher last year before she moved to head up the preschool this year. The Waldorf curriculum is a very intentional, developmentally appropriate, hands on curriculum. Observing circle time, as someone who works with children, I was amazed and thrilled at how every activity and movement they do connects with a part of children's development and meets the children where they are at. I'm sure that you know academics don't start until 1st grade, so the early childhood program is about fostering social skills, motor skills, self regulation and coping skills, play skills and imagination and problem solving that will later all be used as a foundation for a fuller academic experience.  Academics come later but come in a deeper way because of the foundation that is laid. EBWS teachers go above and beyond in their teaching and outside of school as well to provide the children with an incredible education. You can tell that the teachers really care for the children and care for their well being. In the grades each child is welcomed in the morning with a handshake where the teacher looks into their eyes and makes a connection with that child. At the end of the day they express gratitude to each child. My children love school and their teacher. Along with their academics they have music, a variety of different kinds of art, gardening, PE and another kind of movement, music (choir and instrument playing), Spanish and handwork. They have the same class teacher for several years which provides a lot of continuity, but this teacher is for the most part only their morning teacher. Throughout the day they have a variety of other teachers who teach the above subjects. I'm thrilled that my children love learning and are having a natural curiosity for learning instilled in them.

I could go on and on but I also know that Waldorf is not for everyone. Please take a tour, come to an open house and see student work as well as some of the teachers teaching. Talk to parents in person (and please don't rely on social media for your info as there is a lot of misinformation out there). In the end go with your gut and knowing that you know your child best and what environment they would thrive in. You are the expert on your child. Feel free to contact me if you want further info. Soni, the enrollment director is also a gem.

Hi,

I have had kids at this school for 6 years now. I never experienced those early childhood years at EBWS, but did in another waldorf school. I would say a tour would give you a very good taste and you would know very quickly if it is for you or not. It has been a wonderful way to bring up my children. My daughter, now in 4th grade HATES missing school, if she is sick. We have been blessed with two wonderful teachers, in addition to the energetic and passionate subject teachers. The sprawling natural campus is a perfect antidote to the stresses of urban life. Come, check it out!