why waldorf
Vision, Mission, and Values Statement
“Waldorf education is not a pedagogical system but an art - the art of awakening what is actually there within the human being.”
Our Vision
The Waldorf School of Atlanta embodies the ideals of Waldorf Education:
The sanctity of childhood
An abiding sense of wonder
An evolving quest for truth
Our Mission
The Waldorf School of Atlanta develops in its students the will to become life-long learners by fostering in each student the ability to think with clarity, feel with compassion, and act with purpose in the world.
Our Values
REVERENCE - We regard our fellow human beings and the natural world with reverence.
We foster opportunities to experience wonder and beauty in nature, the arts, and social encounters.
We honor diversity of culture, experience, and perspective in our community.
We recognize the spiritual element in all beings.
RELATIONSHIPS - We cultivate authentic and enduring human relationships.
We nurture meaningful connections between teachers, students, parents, and colleagues, deepening and sustaining these relationships with vulnerability and courage.
We work collaboratively using processes that invite a wide contribution of perspectives and ideas.
We develop citizens of the world who care deeply about equity, inclusion, and justice.
RENEWAL - We strive for ongoing personal and social renewal.
We practice self-reflection and curiosity as foundations of lifelong learning and improvement.
We use observation and study to discern the evolving needs of the children we serve and manifest the ideal of Waldorf education as an education for the future.
We develop the will to work through challenges.
Childhood First.
Experts in child development are now confirming what Rudolf Steiner, the founder of Waldorf schools, understood a hundred years ago: children learn both eagerly and naturally. Every detail of Waldorf education places the development of the individual child as the focal point. Our curriculum – rich in every branch of academics and enlivened with the arts and practical skills – honors children at each stage, nurturing their current capacities and preparing them for new learning to come.
From early childhood through high school, Waldorf classes go beyond routine dispensing of academic information. They also develop the nimble, humane, and discerning minds these young people will need. Our teachers steadily build each student’s individual capacity for sensitive engagement, original thinking, clear reasoning, and the ability to translate thoughts into action.
Listen carefully to the learning at Waldorf and you will hear the joyful sound of childhood taking its time.
Explore more in our brochure, Childhood First >
