The Waldorf School of Garden City, Garden City | Fees, Rankings, Address, Admission, Vacancies, Reviews & More

I love the philosophy of the school. It is not what is taught, but how it’s taught that makes a difference. Lessons are taught by capturing a child’s imagination and engaging their bodies in a multi-faceted, multi-sensory approach through stories, art, and music, among other things. The content and environment is geared towards what a child needs for his or her development at that age, for a nursery child needs something different from a high school senior. There are no formal academics in the pre-school, but by high school, the program is extremely rigorous and demanding. The amazing qualities the children are developing may not be obvious in the lower grades, but by high school, it becomes clear how confident, articulate, courteous, well rounded, and able to think independently they are. New families often notice this when they tour the school with a high school student during an open house. Being outdoors is also very important. The children go outside everyday, even in the rain or snow, unless it is pouring or frigid – rain gear and snowsuits are a must! The student body is truly diverse and it is a close knit community. The school is a great place, but like all schools, it is run by people, and the teachers are human too, so not everything is always perfect but for me, what counts is that this is a place where everyone strives towards an ideal.

I have been a parent of a child who began her school career at The Waldorf School of Garden City as a three year old and now she is in sixth grade. The connection between our natural world, child development and academics is brought into a daily reality. We have been so fortunate to be able to be part of this institution. The school itself sits on a lovely property with several play yards as well as a nature trail. Our experience with the faculty has been one of mutual respect and willingness to encourage each child to reach their heart’s and mind’s potential. The curriculum is introduced and taught in a way that connects each child to the outside world in a way that meets them intrinsically. Math, science, language and arts are all part of the daily routine. Ultimately my daughter is receiving a well rounded liberal arts education.