ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

“The heart of the Waldorf method is that education is an art – it must speak to the child's experience. To educate the whole child, his heart and his will must be reached, as well as his mind." – Rudolf Steiner

Exploration & Discovery
Grades 1 through 5



Our Elementary program is Waldorf-inspired where a wholesome curriculum is provided with both rigorous academics, combined with the arts so that what is taught becomes integrated into the child. In the Elementary years, the curriculum is brought in a more gentle way, meeting the student where they are developmentally. The curriculum can be represented by an ascending spiral of integrated learning which is built upon year by year. In the elementary grades, this is accomplished by the unique Main Lesson Block system. Each morning the children spend the first period of the day - the two-hour Main Lesson - with their main class teacher. This is a time when the young mind is freshest, and they will intensively study a core subject from the block schedule like the four math processes, local geography, and literature. Afternoons are devoted to the more social classes like games, music, painting, handwork, and gardening - all are considered vital parts of a complete education. The lessons are alive and meaningful with a great deal of movement, so the students are always actively engaged as they are called upon to draw upon the artistic, analytical, physical and social elements within themselves on a daily basis. Through this rigorous process, independent thinking begins to awaken and sound judgment are trained. Social, emotional and intellectual intelligence are recognized and developed. 

We welcome the outdoors, now bringing most of our lessons there to create an even more experiential lesson for the student. This is also a way for us to offer a safe learning environment during COVID-19 that is in-person.

The Elementary curriculum includes:
  • Literature
  • English
  • History
  • Math
  • Science
  • Geography
  • Foreign Language
  • Music
  • Art
  • Handwork
  • Physical Education.

Unique classes that we are also proud to offer are Knitting, Fiddle, and Yoga.


Students are encouraged to revel in the wonder of their childhood and a strong sense of community is nourished at Riverwood Community School. Community is at the heart of Riverwood Community School. Seasonal Festivals, parent meetings, guest speakers, and volunteer opportunities provide many options to learn, celebrate with, and support one another. 

Please contact us for more information if you are interested.
 

For prices and additional information please visit the Admissions section.

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