Kasia Janick
Handwork Teacher, Grades One through Three
Waldorf Teacher Certificate, Sunbridge Institute
Master’s Degree, International Studies, Warsaw School of Economics
Master’s Degree, Finance and Banking, Warsaw School of Economics
Kasia has been working as the Lower School Handwork Teacher since September 2022. As a Waldorf Handwork Teacher, she possesses a deep passion for fostering creativity and practical skills in young learners. For Kasia, Handwork is a means of instilling lifelong values of patience, craftsmanship, and reverence for the handmade. Through everyday work, she strives to create an inclusive and inviting learning environment where students can explore knitting, crocheting, embroidery, sewing, and other handcrafts.
Kasia emphasizes the importance of connecting Handwork to the broader curriculum, aiming to foster a sense of wonder and purpose in her students. Her lessons are a blend of tradition and innovation, incorporating natural materials and age-appropriate challenges. She takes great joy in witnessing her students develop not only practical skills but also confidence, fine motor skills, and a deep appreciation for the art of handmade crafts. Kasia is a dedicated advocate for the Waldorf philosophy, firmly believing that the Handwork curriculum plays a pivotal role in developing well-rounded individuals who are attuned to the world around them. Prior to teaching at Philly Waldorf, Kasia taught Kindergarten-aged children in a Waldorf-inspired setting for almost 10 years.
Kasia is a mother of three Waldorf students and has been a parent at the Waldorf School of Philadelphia since 2015. Outside of the classroom, her interests revolve around art, culture, architecture, nature, healthy food, and an active lifestyle. Her days are filled with gardening with native plants, cooking, hiking, jogging with her dog Lola, and educational travel (both locally and around the world) with her family.