The Value of a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum
The 2022-2023 school year marked the rollout of the Waldorf School of Philadelphia’s Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum for students in Grades 1-8, though this work has always been embedded in, and integral to, our classroom culture. As an academic institution, we understand the importance of teaching the whole child: mind, body, and spirit. Research shows that social emotional learning and character education curricula benefit students in myriad ways.
Honoring Black History Month
Folded into our curriculum at the Waldorf School of Philadelphia are many consistent and intentional themes centering different peoples, cultures, practices, and communities. Last spring, students used class time across campus to celebrate the achievements, narratives, histories, and lives of African American and Black people across the diaspora. Throughout the year, and especially as we head into Black History Month 2023, we keep Black History at the forefront of our minds.
Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was an individual human, like the rest of us. His work speaks volumes to the power that individuals have, as well as to the impact that can be made when we work collectively. Like his colleagues Bayard Rustin, James Farmer of CORE, and the late John Lewis, Dr. King aspired, and in turn, inspired. As we pause our routine work and school day next Monday to reflect on what King gave the Black community, the United States, and the world, it is also a time to reflect on what has yet to be shared, and what has yet to be done.
The Season of Light
In this season, the invitation to plant seeds of intention is ripe. The New Year in the Gregorian calendar is like the turning of a page. While January 1 often feels somewhat arbitrary, the Solstice (and the New Moon!) provide concrete moments of change and renewal. This renewal that marks the coming of “more light” is exciting and important.
Community Partnerships: Germantown Community Fridge
During the month of January, our entire community will be working collaboratively to continue our partnership with Germantown Community Fridge.
Fifth Grade Forum
Fifth Grade Forum is well underway in Ms. Richardson’s class this year. Born of a desire to instill a culture of kindness and social awareness in our classrooms, the Forum provides students with an opportunity to engage in weekly conversations and reflections around topics of identity, kindness, conflict resolution, diversity, and justice.
Sixth Grade Seminar
By studying the inspirational stories of those who came before us, The Sixth Grade Seminar provides students with opportunities to use their voices, to make connections, think critically, and learn more about the lives of important people in history, as well as themselves.
Reflections on Gratitude
As we move through the season of the light, Native American History Month, and into the winter holiday season, we are met with many opportunities for acknowledging others and expressing gratitude. This month and this season, that is where my priority will be: remembering that everyone is experiencing an equally sacred life of their own, and the importance of acknowledging all people, as best we can, with equity.
Love of Literacy: A Student Support Spotlight
Wonderful things are happening on the Philly Waldorf Campus this school year! We are thrilled to announce the expansion of our Reading Support Program to include grades 2-6. An integral member of Waldorf’s Student Support Services Team is Mrs. Theresa Stevens, our reading support teacher from Learn It Academic Services who works in close partnership with our classroom teachers to administer effective small group instruction that supports their work in the classroom.
Honoring Indigenous Peoples
Learning about Indigenous cultures and the history that makes celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day (October 10th) and Indigenous Peoples’ Month (November) so vital is an integral part of self-education for all of us!
Social Emotional Learning and Anti-Bullying Curriculum
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is important because the skills learned are essentially life skills which are needed to be successful in the classroom, at home, with friends, and in future relationships. Regardless of age, culture, education or socioeconomic status, we all need to know how to manage our emotions, understand and believe in ourselves, establish and maintain positive relationships with others, and make responsible decisions.
Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is unique among heritage months in that it doesn't start and end within the same month. Instead, it begins on September 15th to honor the independence days of several Latin American countries and ends on October 15th.
Media Mindfulness
Waldorf education protects childhood by prioritizing real-world experiences in children’s formative years.
One Teacher, Eight Years: Deepening Connection & Learning
Multi-year teaching in a Waldorf grade school allows teachers to take the time to make deep connections with students, all within a school culture that respects, supports and empowers teachers. Learn why Waldorf schools adopt a multi-year teaching approach in the grade school.
In Waldorf Education, STEM is STEAM
In Waldorf education, STEM becomes STEAM to bring relevancy and realism to our growing world of bits, dynamic loads and relativity. Learn more about how our diverse curriculum prepares students to think critically and creativity in a future run by science, algorithm, and advanced mathematics.
LGBTQ+ Family Supports at The Waldorf School of Philadelphia
School is challenging for every family, but it can be more complicated for LGBTQ+ families, who often face unique stressors when navigating the educational system. The Waldorf School of Philadelphia is taking active steps to make each aspect of our school experience receptive and sensitive to the needs of LGBTQ+ families.
Waldorf Education, A Gift at Any Age
The gift of Waldorf Education is joyfully received at any age. Parents seeking an alternative to conventional education, where their children are stressed out and over scheduled, are drawn to the interdisciplinary curriculum Waldorf Education offers.
How to Transfer to a Waldorf School
A common misconception about Waldorf schools is that it’s impossible to transition into a Waldorf school in elementary school. Read all you need to know about transferring to a Waldorf School.
5 Reasons to Join the Alumni Association
Are you an alum or parent of a Waldorf graduate? If so, The Waldorf School of Philadelphia wants to hear from you! There has never been a better time to get re-engaged with our welcoming community!
Supporting The Nine Year Old Child at School and at Home
Nine-year-olds are watching teachers and other authority figures and are seeking to answer questions like: “How do people walk in the world? How do I make decisions? What is important?” Waldorf education’s curriculum in third and fourth grade has been designed specifically to help support children at this age so that they can create the answers needed to be confident and critical thinking grade school students and set a solid foundation for social-emotional growth and academic learning.