Waldorf School Of The Peninsula in Los Altos California
Discovering the Waldorf School of the Peninsula in Los Altos, California
Name: Waldorf School of the Peninsula
Type of School: Private, non-profit, co-educational
Address: 11311 Mora Drive, Los Altos, CA 94024
Ages taught: Preschool through 12th grade
Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, the Waldorf School of the Peninsula (WSP) is a unique educational institution that has been serving the community for over 35 years. With a mission to inspire a lifelong love of learning, WSP offers a holistic education that focuses on nurturing the mind, body, and spirit of each student. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this school stand out from the rest.
About the School
Founded in 1984, WSP is part of the worldwide Waldorf education movement that began in Germany in the early 20th century. The school follows the principles of anthroposophy, a philosophy developed by Austrian thinker Rudolf Steiner, which emphasizes the holistic development of each individual. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and is a member of the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America.
The Curriculum
At WSP, the curriculum is designed to engage students in a well-rounded education that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility. The school places a strong emphasis on the arts, with music, drama, and visual arts integrated into all subjects. In addition, students learn two foreign languages, beginning with Spanish in kindergarten and adding Mandarin or German in middle school. The curriculum also includes outdoor education, gardening, and woodworking, giving students hands-on experiences and practical skills.
The Community
One of the key aspects of WSP is the strong sense of community within the school. With small class sizes and a low student-teacher ratio, students receive individual attention and are able to develop close relationships with their peers and teachers. The school also encourages parent involvement through volunteer opportunities and parent education programs. The community extends beyond the school, as WSP partners with local organizations to provide students with service-learning opportunities and real-world experiences.
Unique Offerings
WSP offers some unique programs that set it apart from other schools in the area. The school has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, with a solar-powered campus and a focus on waste reduction and recycling. In addition, WSP has a strong focus on technology, with a one-to-one laptop program for middle and high school students, as well as an innovation lab for hands-on learning and project-based work.
Conclusion
The Waldorf School of the Peninsula is a hidden gem in the bustling city of Los Altos, offering a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in our ever-changing world. With a strong emphasis on creativity, community, and sustainability, WSP is a school that truly stands out.
Similar Schools in the Area:
- The Nueva School – Hillsborough, CA
- Castilleja School – Palo Alto, CA
- Harker School – San Jose, CA
- The Girls’ Middle School – Palo Alto, CA
- Academy of Thought and Industry – San Francisco, CA