Grades School Curriculum
Our elementary and middle school program embodies the heart of Waldorf education. Students develop intellectual, artistic, and practical capacities through an integrated curriculum that honors each stage of child development.
The Class Teacher
A hallmark of Waldorf education is the class teacher who accompanies a class for multiple years. This continuity allows teachers to deeply understand each child, adapt instruction to individual needs, and build lasting relationships with families.
The class teacher leads the morning main lesson block and coordinates with specialty teachers to create a cohesive educational experience.
The Main Lesson Block
How It Works
Each morning begins with a two-hour main lesson block dedicated to one subject for 3-4 weeks. This immersive approach allows students to dive deeply into a topic, make connections, and truly master the material.
After each block, the subject "rests" while another is studied, allowing for unconscious processing and integration. When the subject returns months later, students often demonstrate remarkable retention and growth.
Main Lesson Subjects
- Language Arts:Writing, grammar, literature, and composition taught through the grades
- Mathematics:From basic operations through algebra and geometry
- History:From mythology through world history and civics
- Sciences:Nature study, botany, zoology, physics, and chemistry
- Geography:Local, regional, world geography and astronomy
The Journey Through the Grades
Wonder and Imagination
Through fairy tales, nature stories, and artistic activities, children develop foundational literacy and numeracy while maintaining their connection to imagination.
Practical Skills and Local World
Children cross the "9-year change" and develop a new relationship with the world through farming, building, and local studies.
Ancient Civilizations and Science
Students explore the great ancient cultures and begin formal scientific study, developing historical thinking and observation skills.
Renaissance to Modern Era
Adolescent students engage with the modern world through history, sciences, and increased responsibility and independence.
Specialty Classes
In addition to the main lesson, students participate in specialty classes taught by dedicated subject teachers. These classes occur throughout the week and provide essential balance to the curriculum.
Spanish
World language instruction from first grade
Music
Singing, recorder, and strings program
Movement
Eurythmy and games/physical education
Handwork
Knitting, crocheting, sewing, and fiber arts
Woodwork
Carving and construction in upper grades
Art
Watercolor painting, drawing, and sculpture
Main Lesson Books
Students create beautiful main lesson books for each subject block. These handmade books serve as textbooks, workbooks, and works of art, demonstrating understanding through writing, illustration, and careful presentation.
Creating main lesson books develops attention to detail, artistic sensibility, and a personal connection to the material that standardized worksheets cannot provide.
"The main lesson book is the child's own creation—a record of learning and a work of art."
Experience Our Grades Program
Schedule a tour to visit our classrooms, observe a main lesson, and see how our Waldorf curriculum brings learning to life.