Elementary School
An Elementary School for the Whole Child
Learning with the Head, Hands and Heart
The Waldorf curriculum for grades 1 to 5 works to develop the intellect, a sense of wonder, and a joy of learning.
Reading, writing, science, and math are accompanied by opportunities to play an instrument, knit, paint, carve wood, and perform in plays.
Our technology-free classrooms allow the children to focus on hands-on learning, interacting with the teacher, and reading from books.
The unfolding of each child’s unique abilities is the task of our experienced faculty who remain with the children for several years.
Specialty teachers provide instruction in woodworking, Spanish, Mandarin, music, handwork, physical education, gardening, and more.
Academics Integrated with the Arts
Our Lower School, or Elementary School starts with first grade and goes to fifth grade. The student then continues to our Middle School which is sixth grade through eighth grade.
Self expression is an important part of a Waldorf education. As a record of their learning, students create their own “textbooks,” which include original compositions, illustrations, and diagrams.
Fine and practical arts, music, drama, and singing all awaken and hone the students' capacity for self-expression and build the confidence that allows students to thrive.
Experiential Learning
Waldorf Education cultivates a love for learning through a dynamic curriculum, fostering curiosity and creative problem-solving. Homework, introduced in 3rd grade, reinforces lessons.
Assessment eschews letter grades, opting for comprehensive written feedback. No standardized tests are administered in the lower school.
Academics integrate arts and hands-on learning, enhancing subjects like reading, writing, history, math, and science. This holistic approach develops intellect, wonder, and a joy for learning.
Embracing a screen-free environment, Waldorf Education emphasizes teacher interaction, book reading, and handwriting for optimal concentration, memory, and critical thinking, essential for healthy neurological development in children.
Awakening Each Child's Capacity
Fostering moral education in a cooperative, non-competitive environment, Waldorf teachers actively nurture emotional intelligence. Through personal engagement with class social issues, children develop the ability to express and share perspectives, listen to peers, and respect individual differences.
Highland Hall News
Finger-Knitting in Kindergarten
Finger-knitting in a Waldorf kindergarten is a cherished activity designed to develop dexterity, fine motor skills, and focus through a rhythmic process. Using yarn, children create simple single-chain stitches, sometimes described as “finger-crocheting,” to make items like belts or necklaces. The method involves a repetitive motion of pulling loops through each other to form a […]
Congratulations to Spelling Bee Winners
Congratulations to 8th-grader Lily Elms who placed second in our school’s Spelling Bee and went on to place second in the Community Bee with thirty-three students from other schools. As second place winner, Lily then competed in the Los Angeles County Regional Spelling Bee on March 18, 2026 and ended up in 15th place! Congratulations are […]
New 2026 Summer Camp Activities
This summer we are offering 3 Summer Camps with distinct activities based on your child’s age. Registration is by the week & older students can choose different activities each week which include co-ed volleyball, soccer, basketball, flag football, and games such as Dungeons & Dragons and chess. Younger students enjoy our farm & garden, arts & crafts and water play.
