Some people love Waldorf education. Some sing its praises. But others have gone on the record with various complaints, ranging from relatively minor to fundamental and severe. If you are considering a Waldorf school for your child, you probably should consider such complaints carefully. Heeding these words of warning just might spare you and your child considerable distress.

Some issues arise over and over in the following catalogue of complaints. These are, evidently, systemic problems that recur often in Waldorf schools.

Pete Karaiskos gathered the following reviews and posted them on his websites Waldorf Awareness and The Waldorf Review. In many instances, he located the reviews on the website Great Schools! That website carries many positive reviews of Waldorf schools in addition to the complaints culled by Karaiskos. (See the cautionary note at the end of Complaints 3 about glowing Waldorf reviews.)

Because my focus is on Waldorf education generally rather than any particular Waldorf school, I have eliminated the names of the schools cited. (Note that some of the schools reviewed are private Waldorf schools, some are private "Waldorf-inspired" schools, and some are public Waldorf charter schools. Despite individual variation, these various types of Waldorf schools are all much the same, as the reviews make plain.) I use a pseudonym — "Waldorf School X" or "Steiner School X" — for each school reviewed. 

Some of the reviews praise various parts of Waldorf education while criticizing others. Some affirm the Waldorf philosophy or Waldorf ideals (at least as the writers understand these) while complaining of failed implementation. There are, naturally, differences of opinion. Some reviews praise Waldorf teachers generally, while others complain that Waldorf teachers fail to provide a real education for the students. Touchingly, parents whose children have suffered at one Waldorf school often retain their belief in Waldorf education overall, apparently not realizing that the same problems have been discovered at numerous other Waldorf schools worldwide. Events that may seem to be anomalies may actually be symptomatic of large faults in the Waldorf approach. Certainly, anyone who reads through the reviews will soon spot several distinctly troubling patterns.

Here is a synopsis of at least some of the themes that arise in the reviews. 

Parents and students often praise Waldorf faculties — or at least some members of Waldorf faculties — for being devoted and caring. Real affection for Waldorf teachers is evident in many of the reviews. On the other hand, many reviews complain that Waldorf schools fail to provide a good education, which suggests a wide-scale failure by Waldorf faculties. The deficiencies are reportedly greatest in the core academic subjects, such as reading, writing, and math, and they are especially evident among students in the early grades. According to their proponents, Waldorf schools generally promote "slow learning," which causes them to begin academic instruction later than other types of schools do. But, Waldorf representatives claim, Waldorf students eventually catch up with, and even surpass, students in other schools. Many of the reviews challenge this, reporting that Waldorf students remain behind throughout middle school and even high school. In general, reviewers indicate that Waldorf schools fail to prepare their students well for college and/or for life outside Waldorf's walls. 

Several reviewers indicate that Waldorf preschool programs are lovely, but they suggest transferring your child to another type of school after kindergarten. (We should note, however, that Waldorf preschools generally provide almost none of the academic preparatory work found in mainstream preschools or in programs such as Head Start. Thus, Waldorf preschoolers may enter first grade already behind grade level, and the deficits may only increase if students attend Waldorf elementary school and then transfer out.) Several reviewers indicate that although Waldorf education is sometimes described as being progressive, in fact it relies on practices and theories laid out more than a century ago by an individual with no background as a educator — Rudolf Steiner. These reviewers comment that Waldorf faculties make little or no use of educational innovations or improvements developed in recent decades.

While some Waldorf teachers are highly praised, others are severely criticized. Some are said to be reserved, withdrawn, harsh, and even incompetent. Various reviewers complain about teachers who have few if any real qualifications, teachers who have not gone through recognized teacher-preparation programs, and teachers who have not gone to college. Because Waldorf class teachers often stay with the same group of children for many years (often from first grade through fifth or even eighth grade), the qualifications and attributes of individual teachers are especially crucial in Waldorf schools, reviewers say. If your child is fortunate enough to be assigned to a group enjoying the attentions of an outstanding educator, all may be well. But if your child's class teacher is average or below-average, long-term problems may result.

Relations between Waldorf teachers and students' parents are often described as strained. Waldorf schools often encourage or even require parents to do volunteer work in or around the schools, and some parents sit on committees or boards holding real power within the schools. Thus, parental involvement is usually extensive at Waldorf schools, and a sense of community may be fostered. Nonetheless, parents often feel shut out by teachers and administrators in various ways. (Rudolf Steiner indicated that Waldorf teachers should supplant parents as the most important adults in children's lives, and while this tenet is not usually stated openly at Waldorf schools, it accounts for much of the tension that frequently arises between teachers and parents.) Parents are often not permitted to be present in Waldorf classrooms while classes are in progress, whereas Waldorf teachers are often given free rein to conduct all classes according to their own preferences and intentions. Many parents complain that Waldorf teachers — who function with little supervision — are unresponsive to parental concerns, are unwilling to accept suggestions, seem set in their ways, and often refuse to explain themselves.

Waldorf administrations come in for heavy criticism. Many reviews describe various Waldorf schools as disorganized, leaderless, and even dysfunctional. Sometimes the fault is ascribed to incompetent administrators, and sometimes it is ascribed to the absence of administrators. (Many Waldorf schools attempt to operate under the collective control of the faculty, with no chairpeople, principals, or other administrative officers.) Either way, according to a large number of reviews, Waldorf schools often suffer from a lack of effective leadership. This, along with concerns about the quality of the education provided and the covert spiritualistic purposes of the schools, causes many families to leave. Reviewers indicate that drop-out rates at Waldorf schools are often high. (Some reviewers also claim that Waldorf administrators and faculties mislead the public about such matters by posting large numbers of false, positive reviews of their schools on the Internet.)

A major source of concern is that Waldorf schools are often far more immersed in Anthroposophy than they acknowledge. After a family commits itself to a Waldorf school, the parents may eventually conclude that they have been deceived, induced to send their children to schools that have unexplained esoteric beliefs and practices. Some reviewers report feeling that they have been lured into the outer circles of a cult. The countercultural, New Age, "spiritual" ambience perceptible in many Waldorf schools can be one of the great attractions of these schools. Beauty and idealism are often apparent during initial visits to Waldorf schools, and some families find the schools' implicit promises fulfilled over time. They are glad they found Waldorf. But other families become alienated. They report reaching the conclusion that they were misled, and they worry that their children have been subjected to something like occult indoctrination. Some have pointed to the contents of the students' lesson books as evidence.

A surprising but prevalent complaint mentioned in many reviews is that Waldorf schools often allow bullying and other abusive behaviors among students and even staff. Lack of discipline is often cited, paired with failure to adequately supervise students during recesses and in class. (While few parents seem to realize it, Waldorf teachers generally believe that children must be free to enact their karmas. Hence, if one child is fated to be a bully, and if another child is fated to be bullied, they should be given the freedom to enact these destinies.) Less common, but equally worrisome, is that some reviewers report racial prejudice, taunting, and discrimination in at least some Waldorf environs. (Steiner indicated that humans evolve upward through a series of racial forms, extending from the darkest and lowest to the whitest and highest. This belief is rarely if ever detected in Waldorf schools today, but at least some Anthroposophists evidently still accept it as truth.) 

The treatment of students with special needs in Waldorf schools is a subject of controversy. Numerous reviewers indicate that Waldorf schools are singularly ill-equipped to assist such students, while a few reviewers claim just the reverse. (In Anthroposophical belief, afflictions are often the result of karma or astrological influences, and usually they should be left untreated. However, Steiner indicated that in some instances, at least, humane intervention is warranted.) 

Some reviewers accept the Waldorf claim that individual differences among students are honored in the schools, but many others report that students are stereotyped and subjected to one-size-fits-all processes. According to various reviewers, students of a given age are often treated as if they all stand at the same developmental level. (It is not uncommon to find Waldorf teachers speaking of "the  third grader," or "the  high school freshman," for instance — as if every child in any particular grade is basically the same as every other child in that grade.) Then, too, some reviewers allege that students of different "temperaments," genders, and races are sometimes treated as if all members of such categories are essentially alike (all "sanguine" students are alike and should be treated differently from all "choleric", "phlegmatic", and "melancholc" students, and so on). 

Wading through the great number of reviews reproduced below can be time-consuming and laborious. Many of the reviews repeat points already made by other reviews, while various reviews contradict one another. Still, reading this material can be eye-opening and, thus, valuable. I commend the undertaking to you.

— Roger Rawlings

REVIEWS OF WALDORF SCHOOLS

BY PARENTS AND STUDENTS

Posted Saturday, August 11, 2012     The experience your child has in a Waldorf school is dependent on who they have as a teacher, because teachers stay with the class. If you are going to have a new teacher I would recommend doing as much information-gathering as you can. Even if you get a strong teacher be prepared to pay for additional tutoring because they cannot deal with learning differences. The school is ideologically rigid about believing that learning disabilities are developmental. Parents who advocate for their children are discouraged or ignored. I have never been treated so disrespectfully as a parent. There are many beautiful things about the curriculum but the program is not very academic, behavior problems and bullying are prevalent, and there was more media influence than there was at our neighborhood public school. I wonder if Waldorf isn't best for girls, and those girls who would do well anywhere. — Submitted by a parent

Posted June 10, 2012     I attended the [Waldorf School X] from kindergarten through 8th grade. While I received an interesting education, much of Waldorf is teacher-dependent (in Waldorf, a teacher takes a class from 1st to 8th grade). From 1st to 5th grade, my teacher was less than spectacular, and as a result I did not know how to read until after 5th grade, when my parents paid for a tutor. After 8th grade I left the school to attend a public high school, where I received a very hands-on education. Waldorf will not teach children to take tests, and is very clannish. They advertise themselves by putting down other schools, calling them "materialistic" and "not student-oriented" which is very frustrating and hurtful to those who leave for financial or personal reasons. There are some teachers at the school who were fantastic ... The Language program is a joke. I cannot stress how amazing the kindergarten program is, but if I were a parent, I would only send my child to Waldorf through 3rd grade; while not an ideal merit assessment, children do need to know how to take tests (assuming they go to an accredited university). 

2/24/2013     Beautiful school for preschool. Run for your life from 1st grade on! Yes, indeed, some very bright kids learn on their own. A lot of kids don't, and the families leave under very bad circumstances, after being told the problem is the kids. Nope. The problem is assuming every child will learn the Waldorf way, through osmosis. Before signing on, find out how many teachers had to be replaced, how many kids have left without learning the basics, are kids really learning Spanish and Japanese as the school advertises, or do they end up in first year Spanish or Japanese when going into high school, how do these kids do when entering a high school outside the system, what is the real acceptance rate when these kids apply for college — not the standardized list of schools circulated throughout the Waldorf system? There are many good things about the school, but the bad outweighs them. Educate yourself before enrolling your child. Dig deep, before rolling the dice and sending your child to a school with big problems. Then take the money you'll save and put it to better use.

Posted April 21, 2012

The parent reviews sum up this school well. For those that value alternative Waldorf methods and community, no homework, do not mind the no media at school and home policy (no TV, movies, computers and images on clothing/lunchboxes/backpacks), this is a great school. For those that value academics, discipline, learning about technology, and enabling your child to have things in common with and be comfortable relating to kids outside the small Waldorf community, this is not the school for you. For example of the latter, attending a friend's birthday party at Chuck'E'Cheezes is not in keeping with the school's Waldorf methods. Also, be sure to check the school's report card on the [state] Department of Education website. I found the school's performance claims to be inaccurate. — Submitted by a parent

Posted October 17, 2011

The school is disorganized. Teaching methods do not allow for different learning styles. They give lip service to Gardner's Multiple Intelligences framework. Teachers halt all teaching of main lesson to practice for a play...for 3-4 weeks. Kids with learning disabilities are not well supported. Teachers are unwilling to change the Waldorf method in order to accommodate special needs. And the school does not celebrate diversity of thought, of cultures, etc. So, if you are of European descent (white) and have children without learning challenges/disabilities, you'll love this school. You can never question the teaching method, because it is always the student who is "behind in some developmental skill". They'll prescribe house chores, mid-line exercises, etc. to enhance the child's learning capabilities. The teacher has NOTHING to change. The onus is always on the child. The school is a great fit if you are from [X], of European descent (white) and your children do not have learning disabilities. — Submitted by a parent

Posted January 17, 2011

Very slow track methods for learning and super old-school in regards to their philosophy, of course, Waldorf. This school will be a challenge for the modern child and the gifted. — Submitted by a parent

Posted January 7, 2011

This school might work for you if 1) you don't care much whether your child learns anything, 2) you have a very high tolerance for discipline issues and a very disorganized and unprofessional discipline response, 3) you don't mind rampant flakiness such as the staff (even the administration!) not following written policies, 4) you don't mind whether your small child is properly supervised, 5) you can tolerate inconsistent and unprofessional communication styles from the staff. This school is a nightmare. Run! — Submitted by a parent

Posted September 24, 2009

The school does not focus much attention on academics and does not have the support or ability to work with children of different learning styles and needs! — Submitted by a parent

Posted June 24, 2011     Used to love this school. Bought into the physical beauty at every turn. Great early education program. Caring staff. Young HS program w/potential. Fun festivals & community through volunteering. Reasonable tuition too. After this last year ~ no more. Community evolved into the secret society of those "committed" to Waldorf Education & the rest who weren't Steiner's diehard followers. Administration became $ driven instead of human-centered. Teachers became much more into Steiner's anthroposophy to the point of question. Tuition no longer affordable, many families were forced to leave, or to choose which children stayed at the school or had to go somewhere else. No extra help for kids w/special learning needs because it's not recognized in anthroposophy. So now we're one of those former Waldorf families...healing. If the biggest lesson learned from this, we should've researched Steiner's anthroposophy BEFORE enrolling. It's a HUGE commitment of $ & resources not to understand the philosophy & its implications on you & your children. If we knew what we now know about anthroposophy, our children would've never been enrolled in the school in the 1st place. — Submitted by a parent

Posted March 13, 2009     Waldorf education is the best you can want for your child. Unfortunately this is unobtainable for poor kids. With a bunch of upfront fees, like registration, enrollment, supplies etc. you can easily spend $500 up front. Tuition assistance is up to 50% off for the first child which leaves you still with at least $400 per mo. Which parent with a minimum wage job can afford that? Let alone a parent with more than one child? The exclusion of children for that reason is not in line with the purpose Waldorf was started: for the kids of blue collar workers! — Submitted by a parent

Posted December 2, 2005     I was initially impressed with their reputation and preschool curriculum. Upon visiting the campus I enjoyed how the elementary students are not pressured to read and therefore do so much later than their public school peers. After taking a music workshop with them I was much less impressed with the lack of quality presented, and was turned off by not being allowed to observe a closed session with young students. — Submitted by a parent

Posted October 18, 2010

This is not an optimal school for parents or children. The atmosphere is rigid and unsupportive of difference. — Submitted by a parent

November 6, 2010 8:21 PM

Anonymous said... We just removed our son from a [Waldorf School X] due to very severe problems with race-based taunting that was driven by his teacher. The administration considered the problem to be minor and took little action to improve the situation. They began to threaten us with expulsion when we asked too many questions. I am a social worker and am very open-minded to alternative beliefs, but these folks were a problem. Parents should think very carefully about sending children to these schools because if something goes wrong with your child's fit with classmates there are no mechanisms for correcting problems like in more traditional schools.

Don ‎ - 3 years ago

Simply awful! This is quite possibly the worst school and education available. The methods are antithetical to the latest educational research, and the "huggy" mumbo-jumbo reeks of cultishness. The administration and faculty, in our experience, were severely lacking in professionalism and regard for the well-being of all the children. The teacher we were forced to endure in the year and a half our child spent at Waldorf was the most inept, humorless, banal, and ineffective person I have ever encountered. He allowed the "in" kids to walk all over their classmates, and the administration did nothing but try feel-good classroom exercises that the children completely misunderstood. Shame on Waldorf and shame on every single person associated with it. Don't waste your money here. You're better off in the public schools.

Posted November 7, 2011

The Jury is still out for me. My sons first Month in 5th grade was a challange.The bad weather days the students are sent out in the rain. A bully pulled my son shirt's to get his attention about his violyn playing. The teacher said oh the bully was so helpful to the others in the class before. My son does not feel safe or trusted. Health reasons he has missed 10 days so far. I took him from a school in [the city] for this? — Submitted by a parent

Posted October 2, 2009     I did not care for this school at all. The environment was not fun or friendly. It was more of an environment for discipline. The problem with this approach is that the teacher(s) did not first establish any relationship or any sort of trust with the child and before you know it, they are reprimanding the children and sending them out of the room. — Submitted by a parent

As a parent who considered sending her children to the [Steiner School X] and decided against it, I can add that my own impression was that the school was disorganized, poorly run and to my mind did not provide adequately for the children’s well-being, academically or otherwise. I think [Steiner School X]'s website is misleading, as it prominently displays a link to an independent school inspection report (by the Steiner Waldorf Schools Fellowship) using terminology similar to that of [the] Ofsted [Report].* I would advise any parent considering this school to tread carefully and look diligently at all the information available. Saying that, there is a community of parents there who seem very committed to the school’s success and it could be that in time the school can improve its profile. — Comment by Snorkmaiden, February 3, 2011

If I may add a clarification to Snorkmaiden’s comment: the latest inspection report (Nov/Dec 2010) was produced by the School Inspection Service [SIS], to whom Ofsted recently delegated inspection of Steiner schools. The only other schools inspected by the SIS are those associated with the Focus Learning Trust, a.k.a. the Exclusive Brethren religious sect. Make of that what you will. The SIS reporting framework for Steiner schools was worked out with the help of the Steiner Waldorf Schools Fellowship. This might lead some to question the independence of their reporting. If [Steiner School X]'s website is misleading, it is that it’s missing a clear statement on the role of Anthroposophy in the ethos of the school. However, Steiner’s [book] “The Education of the Child” does appear on the reading list page. The SIS report also tells us that “The weekly Faculty Meeting includes study of Steiner’s work in relation to children’s healthy development.” I would second Snorkmaiden’s suggestion for prospective parents to look carefully at all the information available, including careful study of the books on the schools reading list. — February 5, 2011

Just pulled my little one out of [Steiner School X] due to the staff’s ongoing mistreatment of bullyish behaviour in the playground. I wish I checked things more seriously before making this mistake! I can say lots of nice things (and less nice as well) about this school, but it’s all worth nothing if a school cannot provide a healthy and safe environment to begin with! PS. This year alone at least 3 families pulled thier children out of [Steiner School X] kindergartens as a result of bullying.— May 21, 2012

* "The Office for Standards in Education, Children's Services and Skills (Ofsted) regulates and inspects to achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages."

Posted Thursday, August 8, 2013

The test results speak for themselves — this school is terrible. For a school...with mostly college educated parents, the test results are appalling. How any thinking parent can allow their child to go to this school is beyond me. For 2013, grade 6 is 50% at or below basic in reading and 60% at or below basic in math. Sure, the children can knit, cook vegan soup and reenact greek mythology, but wouldn't learning math and reading be more valuable? — Submitted by a parent

Posted August 12, 2012

Core subjects are [only] dabbled in. If you're looking to prepare your [child] for college, forget this school. Knitting and Celtic knot drawing are the focus of this school. Girls outnumber the boys 7-1. Want quality education?? Go somewhere else! — Submitted by a parent

Posted January 19, 2011

This school has no real educational structure. If you want your child to have a good education in math, English, science, etc. this is not the school for you. If you want your child to learn about knitting, painting, and gardening and not much else, then this school is just fine. Having a kid go from [Waldorf School X] to any public/private high school is truly a stressful experience for the kid because they have not properly learned the basic concepts of math, writing, etc.

Posted December 19, 2010

My kids learn many skills of very dubious value and little of factual value [at Waldorf School X]. Yes, they can finger knit and sing, but the math and reading skills are simply

unacceptable. [Waldorf School X] is basically a public school for the sons and daughters of flower children that have escaped the minority-dense schools of [city A] and [city B] and [city C]. No business execs, community leaders, or knowledge workers send their kids here. If you care about your kids' future, consider another institution. If you lead a hand-to-mouth existence, this school will propagate that attitude for your children. As I wrote this, my son from [Waldorf School X] came over to tell me that the bullying at the school was out of control and the staff does not handle it well. I have heard that numerous times. — Submitted by a parent

Posted July 15, 2010

Areas that need work: communication with parents at all levels — bullying — increased supervision in larger classes — Submitted by a parent

Posted May 13, 2010

My son went to [Waldorf School X] for about 4 yrs and it was really good, had a bad deal with bullying, but that was resolved, but come 3rd grade all got lost. The director,

X, couldn't manage anything and still can't. They say they are a Waldorf school, but sometimes I feel like the parents have more control than the teachers. They are losing what little programs they have, really sad. The leadership is awful, teachers are pretty good, but they need to deal with issues they have just swept under the floor before it is too late.

Posted June 29, 2009

We had a beyond-excellent teacher, then got a awful teacher, programs keep getting cut, they don't support LD kids, over-dependent on parent involvement, great families! [Waldorf School X] could be great if they'd get qualified leadership & stopped being a small dysfunctional family. It's sad school admin can't follow thru for parents, could be magnificent school if they had a qualified admin team & better communication between staff & families. Young school, that needs professional direction, if you are willing to risk your kids' academics the gamble could pay off wonderfully or you may flounder in the holes as they erratically try to handle their shortcomings — Submitted by a parent

Posted December 4, 2008

There are some nice people at [Waldorf School X] like anywhere else. There are also some good teachers. However.... They flatter themselves that their education is

different and diverse, but it is not true at all. [Waldorf School X]'s motto should be 'Education Without Effort.' If you want your child to get a decent education in math and science and be able to write a coherent essay paper then [Waldorf School X] is not for you. If you want your child to learn knitting and calligraphy or if you want your child to go on lots of expensive field trips (at the expense of proper learning) then [Waldorf School X] may be right for you. It all starts at the top. Themdirector is, to be quite frank, incompetent. Sad to say, he is not respected by the vast majority of parents and older children. (I'm only allowed 150 words so must end here.) — Submitted by a parent

Posted June 5, 2012     I would advise any new parent to PLEASE do their homework on Waldorf education. I thought that I did, I read the books, talked to other parents etc., however you do not truly understand it until you are there. It is 100% about the teacher that you get in 1st grade. The kindergarten completely sells the school — teachers are wonderful, teacher/child ratio is low and curriculum is positive. However, as a new parent, please look past the kindergarten and interview some of the teachers in the upper grades! Every year, the teacher in first grade is unknown until the last minute. Unfortunately, it is difficult to find good Waldorf-educated teachers — there are just not that many out there. They have hired EXTREMELY poor-quality teachers! Most parents I have talked to have to spend so much $ on extra tutoring for their children when they get close to junior high and high school. No one at the school will tell you this. The reason their test scores show grade level is because the school is made up entirely of...middle class, educated families, it is not due to the teaching staff. Also, many of the teachers are unable to accommodate children with different learning needs. — Submitted by a parent

Posted April 22, 2011     [Waldorf School X] is a great school for some families but adheres to a strict Waldorf pedagogy. Much is made of the media restrictions and delayed literacy, but Waldorf is much more than locking up the T.V. and waiting to do ABCs. Any family considering [Waldorf School X] should read up thoroughly on this form of education. Specific to this school, the class sizes are large, even in grades 1-3 and in keeping with Waldorf, the teaching is group-based, rather than individualized. The kindergarten is one of the best I have ever seen, and some of the grades teachers are absolutely brilliant educators. However, the problem of inconsistency among the classes is huge. The 1st gr. teacher is to remain with your child through 8th gr. If your child gets one of the prized teachers, it's a thoroughly enriching education. If you end up with a less than fabulous teacher, you are in for much disruption and uncertainty. This also means that only a small group of students benefits from the strongest teachers. Art is well-integrated, but it is of a specific style and not taught as a form of personal expression. There is also a spiritual undercurrent to much of the teaching that, though not overt, cannot be denied. — Submitted by a parent

Posted April 10, 2011     This entire school year my child's teacher has said "good morning" to me maybe twice. She has her own set of "pet parents" who she spends most of her time with. She has shown aggressive behavior to my child and even though I have mentioned this to the principal, the behavior continues. A very unhealthy environment! Oh, and you're STUCK with such a teacher 'till 8th grade! — Submitted by a parent

Posted March 5, 2011     Prospective parents should understand that a Waldorf education is a commitment — subjects are taught at a different rate from regular public schools, so especially in the early grades, the children can be significantly behind and a switch may be a stumbling block. It is the goal at Waldorf schools that teachers stay with their class throughout the grades. This can be wonderful, since the teacher has an intimate understanding of his/her class which can truly benefit the child. However, this can also present problems when things don't work out with a teacher. Our children have been [Waldorf School X] students for years, but we are now faced with the problem of a teacher who has extreme and militant rules. Meetings take place, suggestions and promises are made, but the problems persist. Since there is no obvious indication that anything is being done, it is clear that we cannot continue with this teacher until 8th grade. We are now confronting a switch to another school. This will be a traumatic event for our family and I wouldn't wish this situation on anyone. — Submitted by a parent

Posted July 23, 2009     My children attended [Waldorf School X] for many years. The campus is beautiful and the waldorf curriculum is fantastic. However, it seems to be filled with empty promises and lack of follow-through. They preach a lot of collaboration and community. However, the adults in the community, especially the administration and faculty, have a lot of growing up to do. They shirk away from any type of conflict, try to ignore it and as a result many families leave after years of trying to work in their 'collaborative community' model. They are not interested in what the parents want, they simply want to push their own personal agendas. I want a school that walks their own talk!! — Submitted by a parent

Posted May 27, 2009     If you are looking for a true Waldorf education, you will not find it here. There is a loose use of the Waldorf methods, when they are used at all. I found my children received more of a waldorf-style of education by enrolling them in a traditional public school. The head administrator [at Waldorf School X] is also painfully absent from all of the daily activities. My advice would be to look elsewhere. — Submitted by a parent

Posted May 19, 2009   I had my children in [Waldorf School X] for 4 years and every year it became more and more disappointing. I tried to remain hopeful because I believe in the Waldorf philosophy of child development and education, but that is not what is being offered at [Waldorf School X].  My children made great friends while at [Waldorf School X] but when we left and entered a more traditional school system I realized how ill-equipped they were academically. When I think back on how situations concerning my children and myself were handled, I am angry at myself for keeping the children in such a dysfunctional environment. My advice is to proceed with caution. — Submitted by a parent

Posted March 29, 2009   During the time 5 years that my children attended [Waldorf School X]  the quality of education decreased drastically. There was an issue with one of my children and the teacher involved & administration where not very professional. — Submitted by a parent

Posted March 28, 2009   We placed our son into [Waldorf School X] 6 years ago as an alternative to public school. Though I do believe he thrived psychologically from the waldorf principles taught at [Waldorf School X] we felt the academics were sorely lacking. We placed our younger son in [Waldorf School X] 3 years ago and while his math skills seemed adequate he was not taught to read. The administrator at this school is rarely seen and obviously cares little about meeting the state standards in academics. The communication between teachers and parents is completely lacking except if the teachers need volunteers or fund raising. — Submitted by a parent

Posted January 7, 2009   I went to [Waldorf School X] for middle school. After graduating from 8th grade I went to a regular public high school. I felt really behind academically from the other kids. I made some great friends at [Waldorf School X] but I really wish I had gone to a regular middle school. [Waldorf School X] has good extracurricular activities such as sewing, gardening, and art but, they lack academics especially math. I wouldn't suggest sending your child to the [Waldorf X] middle school.

Posted July 9, 2008   This school needs to choose quality teachers that really care about the education they are trying to get across to the children. We have been at this school for 6 yrs. It's great for younger children, [but] the upper grades [are] very disappointing. — Submitted by a parent

Posted July 2, 2008   We have attended [Waldorf School X] for the past 5 years and are leaving disappointed in a program of education that we believe, when done right, offers the best education for a child. I urge anyone who is interested in this school to request the right to observe the teacher and classroom their child will be joining. Lack of discipline, educated teachers and classroom management skills is a problem in many of the grades. If you encounter problems do not expect a resolution, from administration or faculty, in a timely or satisfactory manner. I admire what this school is trying to offer but if they are to move forward and become a model for charter Waldorf schools they need to start taking decisive action towards removing administrative and faculty members that are not advancing the growth of the school. Unfortunately that means making difficult decisions that are not made entirely with the heart. — Submitted by a parent

Posted October 23, 2007   Instruction in the arts is varied and adequate, instruction in math, reading and writing is mediocre to poor. If you choose this school be prepared to supplement your child's core academics. In the 6 years that I have been associated with [Waldorf School X] I only remain hopeful, not convinced, that this school can provide sound educational opportunities for children. We will not return next year. — Submitted by a parent

Posted July 16, 2007   My child and I were greatly disappointed with this school. It seems to pay more attention to mythical objects [sic: subjects?] and fairy tales even up into the higher grades. My child said that she felt like she wasn't learning anything. — Submitted by a parent

Posted May 31, 2007   I have had my child at [Waldorf School X] since 3rd grade. The academics scores have plummeted since entering middle school. The administrator is rarely in the classroom and does not do much to help the children who are failing. I feel since my child has entered 6th grade she has been let down and is now far behind state standards. My child will [not] be attending [Waldorf School X] next year due to the lack of academics needs. — Submitted by a parent

Posted May 19, 2007   This school lacks academics. Its arts are fairly good but the academics are very poor. Such basics such as math, reading, and writing are taught terribly or barely taught. Especially the middle school lacks academics. I am glad to say I am taking my child out. If you seek academic success this school is not for you. — Submitted by a parent

Posted May 7, 2007   The Waldorf education system is wonderful, but administration at this school lacks the business know-how to execute it fully. The school has great potential, the campus and teachers are very special, but the quality of education for each child is hit-and-miss. This is due to administrative issues — specifically, their lack of support for teachers, parents, and supplies/tools needed in classrooms. More organization within administration would help bridge this gap, plus if administrative staff had more business experience in running the school, the program would improve. Finally, the director needs to be more connected and active within this school — specifically by making making rounds and seeing firsthand how each class is doing and taking active steps to improve existing problems. Overall the school has some great qualities, but if you are seeking a consistent education for your child, research this school carefully before enrolling. — Submitted by a parent

Posted April 23, 2007   I love the lack of concrete, the trees, the garden and wide-open spaces. I love the idea of this school. However, there is a definite lack of discipline in the upper elementary grades. The good things about the school are about breaking even now with the negatives. I don't know if I'll put my child in for next year. But it has so much potential it is heartbreaking. — Submitted by a parent

Posted August 11, 2003   This school reminds me of the dark ages, long ankle-length dresses and all the students are all sung their instructions [by the teachers]. My child did not learn anything in the 6 months he attended. — Submitted by a parent

Posted April 23, 2007   The strengths of the school are a Waldorf-inspired philosophy and curriculum, and the high level of parent involvement. A nice plus is the farm setting. Overall, the children are allowed to be kids, and are treated as divine souls worthy of the utmost respect. However, the school lacks leadership, a more reliable discipline structure, and a more consistent and experienced staff. It is great for the little ones; I have some concern for the older grades. If you want your middle schooler to be prepared for [the] Ivy League, keep looking. — Submitted by X, a parent

Posted April 13, 2007   We've been with [Waldorf School X] since my child was 18 mos, for playgroup and preschool. The arts, spiritual, & physical aspects of the child are nurtured well, and there is a lot of love. But the school is run by the teachers, an eclectic group who all have strengths but some severe shortcomings which strongly sway campus life. The campus is beautiful; the community of parents, the lack of commercialism, the organic environment, and the nurturing of the child as a strong and free being are why we came. The abstract, overly right-brained processes are why we are leaving. I feel our daughter has done well, but is not challenged. She comes home and wants to do traditional schoolwork. As a preschooler it helped her grow into her body comfortably, but her mind is left wandering. Lack of social structure and discipline has often upset her. We'll miss the parents. — Submitted by a parent

Friday, June 04, 2010    (By a parent) My children have been attending [Waldorf School X] for 3 years, in that time my children have been in grades: kindergarten, first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, eighth, and ninth  PROS more accepting of developmentally delayed children; emotionally supportive; lovely campus (this is the best and only thing significantly positive thing about [Waldorf School X])  CONS over 90% of the student body is intellectually or emotionally disabled (the healthy students leave); no advanced classes (the good teachers usually leave within a year); no average classes (there is literally a basket weaving class for high school); poor teaching; special ed school; some verbal bullies    Here are two samples of their standardized test scores: In 2009 the third grade had a 23 percent passing rate, sixth grade had a 36 percent passing rate; 60% to 80% of all students in these grades are failing to pass the bare minimum standards set by the state. These students are failing miserably.    Now compare these numbers with a school that has good teachers. I have found that teachers are the most critical factor, a great teacher with a bad administration still teaches well. For 2009 every grade at [another school] had a 97% or higher passing rate, you can't even begin to compare the top scores of [Waldorf School X] vs [that school], its like comparing monkeys with humans.    Some other considerations: While visiting school in 2010 I found drug paraphernalia (a joint and papers) in the bathroom; my average-ability child was the top student in his class; teachers are supposed to teach the same students from first through eighth grade but it rarely happens    Do not do what I did and waste your children’s precious formative years with a school like [Waldorf School X], try schools that have much higher quality teachers and students....  If you have a child that is severely disabled: autism, chemical abuse, aspergers, and functioning at 2 or more grades below level, then [Waldorf School X] may be a great fit, but if you have an average or above-average child, you will be harming them by sending them to [Waldorf School X].

J.S.

Awful experience. Waldorf education can be wonderful! As with every type of education, there are amazing Waldorf schools and there are terrible schools. Our experience with this school was awful. The programs are not what you would expect for the price of tuition. April 17, 2011

Posted November 4, 2008

This school is certainly not right for everybody. It's like a hippie commune combined with an Amish school. It's one big family, sharing, sharing. There is no confidentiality. My son was there for 6 weeks. The best advice i can give to anybody considering this school is read about it first!! From the outside it seems like a dream school. It's not! Thank you. — Submitted by a parent

Posted on 04/17/11

Our experience at [Waldorf School X] was a nightmare. The teachers and staff that we dealt with were awful. We were constantly (almost daily) asked to donate more money to the school. The programs that they offer are inconsistent from year to year and are weak compared the other Waldorf schools in the [wider region]. — Submitted by a parent

Posted on Apr 30, 2012   The education of your child depends too much on the teacher the school has for that grade, since the teacher stays with the students for a number of years. Also I do not recommend starting the school in a later grade since it is difficult for the student as well as the parents to feel welcome. The teacher has already made "friends" with the [other] parents and may not listen to the new parent concerns. The music, Spanish, and games teacher are excellent. — Submitted by a parent

Posted on Apr 25, 2012    Teaching quality, and student experience, varies greatly. A few very good teachers, but quality is inconsistent. Consensus governance model makes decision-making difficult sometimes, particularly in addressing faculty issues. Leadership voids and transitions have been persistent for years. As a result, school continues to stagnate in same semi-depressing rented church space. — Submitted by a parent

Posted on Feb 18, 2012   The educational success of your child depends heavily on what teacher they get, as teachers here stay with their class for many years potentially. The school has also struggled with consistent leadership the last few years. — Submitted by a parent

Posted February 4, 2014   It seemed like an amazing school at first, but [Waldorf School X] declined over the years that my children attended. Specifically the culture changed from a community that sought to include all of the students and welcomed parents on campus and especially at festivals to a closed and cold campus that promoted secretive communication and rumor-mongering among both students and parents. While I enjoyed much of the beautiful artwork produced by my children and some of their classmates, the core curricula of arithmetic and English were very weak. Some teachers were very good at their subjects and as community leaders but many of those teachers have left the school the past two years or so. — Submitted by a parent

Posted January 23, 2014   I wanted to believe in [Waldorf School X]. My children were there for over five years. One of my children had learning difficulties and the other was a high achiever. The school could not meet the needs of either one so a change had to be made and it has been a huge improvement for each child. I also want to add that the faculty at [Waldorf School X] seems somewhat secretive in how it operates and it sometimes made me uncomfortable as a parent. — Submitted by a parent

Posted January 20, 2014   Our child attended [Waldorf School X] for several years after we grew disillusioned with public school. While [Waldorf School X] was generally pleasant during our child s younger years, we grew concerned about the level of academic achievement as our child grew into the middle school years. The matter was complicated by the upheaval of having our child's main teacher depart in the midst of the school year and the school's inability to hire a replacement teacher for the remainder of the entire year and the school's decision to bring in a patchwork quilt of temporary block teachers. These events occurred at a critical time in our child's education and set our child (and likely many other members of the class) back. We ultimately felt that [Waldorf School X] was not providing the necessary foundation for higher learning in upper middle school and high school and decided to remove our child. It has been an academic catch-up battle for our child since arriving at the new school. — Submitted by a parent

Posted January 18, 2014   While I do not subscribe to Anthroposophy, the ideology that guides Waldorf pedagogy, I do feel this school can meet some children better than other private or public schools. The Early Childhood faculty is amazing and a beneficial fit for most children. But there are teacher-imposed lifestyle challenges for parents and children in the grades program. Science and mathematics are weak in the grades program. The education is portfolio- rather than grade-based, and reading is discouraged until age 7. There are a number of children with health challenges at the school and while the school works to meet these children, I have found that it can be difficult for ordinary, healthy children, like my two kids, to thrive in a classroom environment where more children than average are not vaccinated, have profound dietary restrictions, or suffer from a variety or emotional disturbances. The school strives for multiculturalism but is challenged with bullying in the grades owing to it's use of an orthodox boundary-based or behavioral approach to discipline. Team sports are very limited. Currently, it has postponed it's accreditation with AWSNA and NWAIS. — Submitted by a parent

Posted January 13, 2014   I don't doubt that many parents have had good experiences even in middle school at [Waldorf School X] over the years and think highly of the Waldorf curriculum. The problem with [Waldorf School X], however, is that both the director and all of the current middle school teachers feel it appropriate to treat some children badly without facts to support their actions. My children are not the only ones to depart for this reason. Moreover under the current director since 2011, six teachers, or nearly every veteran Waldorf main lesson teacher at the school when the director took over, has left [Waldorf School X]. Also there is little oversight for the actions of the current school administration beyond the Board of Trustees and it seems disinclined to act as it hired the director. — Submitted by a parent

Posted October 15, 2007   In its early years this school was a great and flourishing with life. Bur recently it has taken a turn for the worse, making terrible decisions about faculty and poor academics. If you want a place for your child to mosey their way through school up until high school...this is the place for you. — Submitted by a former student

Posted April 2, 2006   Well-meaning, but falls short academically and in safety and disclipline. We were fairly shocked by the lack of emphasis on anything related to direct education. Discipline problems were evident among the more active kids. — Submitted by a parent

Posted April 3, 2005   Comparatively speaking to other Waldorf schools in the area, this developing school has only 'back-slided' in the last several years. Due to lack of funding and an outrageous mortgage, they are not putting as much into their curriculum as they were previously, and have also made some pretty unwise choices as far as faculty. — Submitted by a parent

Posted March 19, 2011

Unfortunate when a schools leadership has no idea how to truly administer, or to lead. This school has great potential but its administration is stuck and running the school right into the ground. The teachers are wonderful for the most part. The hands-on education and waldorf inspiration inspires the children to enjoy their lessons. The future of this school depends on removal of the buddy-system thriving in the administration office. — Submitted by a parent

Posted August 28, 2010

At [Waldorf School X] the teachers are very dedicated, the administration is mediocre. Because the school budget is a shoestring, it can be difficult to meet the extremely high expectations of parent involvement if you live out of the area, a single parent, work, and cannot be as constantly on site as the locals. In my daughter's class last year there was plenty of drama from over involved parents who are cliquish, prone to squabbles, and power struggles, that were expressed in seemingly constant seething emails (to everyone) that became very tiresome. The teacher finally cried "STOP"! in a very nice Waldorf way. My son's class was at times led by the parents while the teacher seemed to step back. I want the teachers to lead not the parents. With [Waldorf School X] expectations of extreme parent involvement, it becomes it's own negative, EXTREME PARENT INVOLVEMENT! I participate as I can then go home. — Submitted by a parent

Posted August 27, 2010

I find myself concerned about some of the parents who are strongly Waldorf-ites who I also see tending to be extremely protective and limiting of their children's experiences whether it be by any media influences or even other children who are media savvy — as if it would seriously damage or steal their innocence. I'm not advocating throwing the kids out to the wolves, however I fear that parent overprotective behaviors in this day and age can come back and bite the parent years later when their older children finally have a taste of freedom. I've seen it happen. I really like the Waldorf ideas, [but] I think it is also important to stay current, real, and allow kids to experience and learn to "deal" with some things that may be tough, after all, that's real life learning! — Submitted by a parent

Posted July 12, 2010

This school seemed ok at first and the Waldorf method sounded interesting but it was disappointing. The students remain with the same teacher from kindergarden through eighth grade and that is problematic. If your child starts at a later grade they will be the "outsider" in the children's already established "clicks". Some of the students have parents who work at the school and these children will get special treatment because of this, even to the point of the school's "Chair" (that is what they call the principal) not taking any disciplinary action in order to protect them and keep up the school's reputation. The principal "talks the talk" but lacks leadership skills and doesn't follow school's policies. Bullying is an issue as well. I also found this is not actual Waldorf but rather Waldorf-inspired. The American Waldorf Association does not endorse this school.* Don't send your kids there! — Submitted by a parent

I don't know what to do please help with suggestions. My daughter's teacher was accused of molesting 4 girls and slamming the head of one boy on his desk. They went to trial and the girls didn't want to testify so he got those charges dropped, but the boy did testify and the teacher got 1 count of endangering a child. Trial closed, he's still walking around. This was a year ago but the abuse happened when they were much younger so it wasn't high priorty case. My daughter in August just told me that he had rubbed her more than 5 times where one shouldn't. So it would be a new trial. I have called every day lately and they just transfer me to voicemails and no one calls me back. They advisied me not to get counseling or talk to her about it anymore because it could mess up the case. So I haven't. I call daily, no one will take mym calls (always voicemail) and charges have not been filed. She told [X] too. What do I do to get the ball rolling? Newspapers or what kind of lawyer? They just put me through to answering machine after answering machine and no one calls me back. How do I get justice for my child?

* Perhaps the reviewer means the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA). "Waldorf-inspired" schools are typically wholly committed to the Waldorf approach, and in most respects they are indistinguishable from regular Waldorf schools. (One difference is that Anthroposophical devotion and fervor may actually be higher in "Waldorf-inspired" schools than in older, more settled Waldorfs.) But, as relatively new institutions, "Waldorf-inspired" schools  have not yet been fully recognized by Waldorf umbrella groups such as AWSNA.

Ok I went to a Steiner School and I'm pretty torn on it.

My one is the only state funded Steiner in the country — [Waldorf School X], although it was only state funded for the last year of my education there.

I'll start with the positive side of Steiner Education. The young children are raised without pressures and enjoying their learning. They develop a good understanding and are generally well sheltered while also learning good creative skills. They are approcable and genrally kind and undestaning, although this is not always the case. 

That was just a summary, the negatives, I am afraid, far outweigh the positives though and became increasingly apparent the further up the school i went.

For starters, I was taught German and French from the offing and when French was dropped due to a lack of teachers in class 8 (year 9) we took up Spanish. What do I have to show for these skills? I have HALF of an OCN. An OCN is basically a poor GCSE equivalent based on project work instead of exams. OCN is to GCSE kind of what Btec is to A-level except no one has heard of them. On top of this my language skills themselves are dreadful. Despite ten (yes TEN) years of learning German my friend who took it for 3 or so years at a state school is far more competent than me AND is qualified to take it at A level.

Now, I do not mean to sound full of my self, but at a young age when I went to a state primary school (they start a year earlier than Steiner) for a year I was one of the best in my year and of enormous potential. One of the other people who was on a similar level to me is now headed for Oxford University, having taken German A level at school she was so good, and Spanish and French. Why such a difference in achievment between two so evenly matched? Education. 

By the way, we only did three GCSE's at school: the two Englishes and Maths.

Secondly, the sciences. I was in love with science at primary school. When I went to Steiner, we didn't even do it. Our first foray into science was class 5 (year 6!!!) when we did some biology. This was gradually stepped up until we eventually completed...1/4 of an OCN in biology and chemistry with our slightly crazy Swedish science teacher. I have one friend who is attempting physics A level and is finding the work to catch up huge because we basically never even touched on it. There are two from my small class of 19 that are determined to become doctors. Problem? They are both getting C grades at Chemistry and Bilogy due to the lack of grounding in the subjects. One of them is incredibly hard working so it can hardly be put down to that!

Sports. My school (although some are different) didn't allow football [soccer]. While I was not particularly talented I was OBSESSED with it when I was little. Each morning they gave us time to write down thoughts and memories in a diary. Looking through mine the other day it is full of football scores, football discussion, etc. When I played I was at my utmost happiest and I was prepared, no matter what my academic potential, to work everyday to make it in football. All ambition was however, squashed ou of me and what is more, for a school that sells itself as making happier students, surely taking away something that makes so many of the students so much happier is plainly ridiculous.

Our first and only taste of competetive sport came in class 9 (year 10) when we played in the basketball tournament of the county. We had never played in such a tournament and were nervous and up against the year above. They squeezed by us by 3 points and eventually our group came down to one game - us against the physical school who bullies. Now I was far from the best in the year at basket ball but I was, at the very least, competent and reasonably tall but I was dropped for this game so that a bunch of people who couldnt care less about it and were utterly hopeless at it. I watched from the sidelines as we were, once again, unfortunate to go down by 3 points. This one taste of competition had been taken away from me once again, but I was only grateful that those who were truly passionate about the sport were not dropped.

The english teaching and the maths teaching was surprisingly competent. Having said that, most of the content of the language paper was taught to us in the week preceding the exam as the teacher (a crazy canadian woman who was allegedly very experienced but was known to storm out of them class crying if people talked in her desperately boring lessons) because she had spent most of our time in the two years she taught us reading poem after poem. 

In maths, we were taught abysmally actually, until the last year when we recieved state funding and suddenly we got a competent teacher. Yes he was Czech and some students struggled to understand his accent, but for the first time we had a teacher who I could find stimulating and who didn't, to use that old state school cliche, 'spoon feed' us work like the other teachers did!

It has also been said that the school helps people in difficult circumstances. Well this, I'm afraid is also a myth. One of my friends was saved by the Steiner School. He came to the school depressed and with long hair shielding his face. He had been bullied at his old school for being stupid. In fact, while he is heavily dyspraxic and dyslexic he is one of the cleverest people I know. Apart from this, however, there are three cases while I was at school where people in similar situations came and went and the school was utterly at a loss of what to do. One boy, who i remember as being very odd and out of place was given totally insufficient and learning support and left, still a shell of what he should have been. The same guy sits next to me in geography A level classes and is as confident and intelligent as can be.

The issue of bullying is also one which is kept mighty quiet by the school. A kid was in my class all through school and had anger problems. He was baited non stop and frequently got into fights after being bullied. There is also the normal school 'hierarchy system' with the cool kids dominating those below them and, as one of the ones who for many years was in the lower echelon I can tell you, making them feel dreadful.

Art teaching is another thing which is massively over stated. You may be, as lots ofpeople are, that the Steiner School is an arts based school. This is not the case. After my ten years I can tell you, we did the same pictures year on year (brown leaves in autumn...green leaves in spring...oooh...always accmopanied by a poem) and yet were never told how to draw, simply that me must do it. In class 10, for the first time!!!, we had an actual art teacher, well, if you can call her that. She was an Australian woman who was good at art and had had kids at the school, whether she was qualififed or not I have no idea. I managed to learn nothing at all off her in my 9 or so months of lessons as, by this point I had grown so resentful of the school I did as little work as possible in lessons that I did not consider to be important to my sixth form education.

The work we did was not marked with grades until class 7. When it was my work, I seem to remember, came to light as suddenly I had something to work towards! When I recieved my grade and comments back, however, I was to be dissappointed. What do you think let me down? My writing? My essays? My spelling and grammar? Certainly not. In fact my spelling and grammar, and that of several other students' was better than our main teacher at the time as she was dyslexic and an ex hippy who I do not doubt for a moment smoked an awful lot of drugs when she was younger. What actually got my work marked down was my minimalistic decorations. While others around me drew elaborate borders and colourful pictures, I felt that a coloured line and and black and white sketch would suffice. Yet this became an ongoing theme and, the more it happened the more resentful I became and the less effort I put in.

I do believe that, if GCSE's were offered in foreign languages, sciences and other topics that we actually study, such as RE, the whole system would gain an element of focus. What was most frustrating was the whole lack of focus and lack of ambition. With a little bit more drive I am sure that I could have been a much better student than I am now and quite possibly an Oxbridge candidate as well!

I could go on but I must admit, I am becoming rather frazzled with all this typing!!! I know this is seriously long but I just think people should be aware of a lot of the pit falls of Steiner. I think there is a serious danger that talent can be wasted as I believe it was in my case. I was naturally gifted at languages and sciences and an able athlete who was given such a tiny amount to aim for I felt like a dog trying to jump through a pin hole!

Hope this is interesting to people and I am sorry but I simply cannot be bothered to read through it so beware the typos etc.

Oh and I didn't even mention that fact that no matter how many times I was told my lack of GCSE's would be irrelavent once I did my A level I am now struggling to find a top ranked uni that does not set too much store by GCSE's!

Posted December 26, 2014 - a parent   This is a school's story of how to go about grabbing defeat out of the jaws of a clear victory in a Waldorf-inspired charter school that for a time was a model for the country. It was clearly bringing great creative-thinking education to our kids. But, with martinette precision, sheeplike Board members listen to and follow uncredentialled leadership as two individuals are in total control. Waldorf-trained teachers will soon be leaving. Even though a research showed lack of support for the new Principal, the Board voted to extend her 2 more years. She works with the School's Board Treasurer. As we seek for our children to become reasonably moral & socially presentable but if the Board is not so inclined how can we expect our children to be as well? Waldorf requires meaningful work keeping the curriculum healthy. Looks like that train has left the station. So sad.

Posted November 15, 2014 - a parent   This school is terrible. They ask for too many "donations". Also, if you were looking for a school where you can learn, just leave. There is too much play time. For example, most middle school classes get two recesses and a snack time. Really? There is much favoritism in the school. I looked at other reviews and saw that people were happy with how artsy this school is. Yes, it has a good art system, but the students are only copying the teacher's work and are not able to be creative with their own ideas. There are no sports at this school, which I find sad. The students don't do very much homework and will NOT be high-school ready. This school is terrible and I will not recommend it to ANYONE.

Posted October 10, 2014 - a parent   Sadly we had to abandon [Waldorf School X]. We were sold on the idea of positive reinforcement fostering individualized academic growth. I was told that a student would be encouraged to meet their potential. What happened instead is my student was encouraged to find something quiet to do. This did not grow his skills in any way. In fact, he left the school with less proficiency than he arrived. It appears to be a good concept, but it fails.

Posted May 12, 2014 - a community member   [Waldorf School X]. I am a grandparent from out of state. Both my husband and I taught school. I am concerned about the D rating from the state for this school. It was posted in the [local newspaper]. There were only 4 D schools and 2 F schools. How are the schools actually rated? Can anyone answer this question? A grandparent

Posted April 27, 2014 - a parent   The school is more closely aligned with Steiner philosophy than it claims. This can be ideal if you are looking for this type of education. If you are unfamiliar with Steiner philosophy then it can be a surprise. The imagination that children develop here is amazing. Children learn to be sensitive and kind. Friendships and community are above and beyond wonderful here. The school struggles to provide the education in line with its philosophy and meet state standards. It's a curious blend and brings unpredictability. Science education here is not in line with any other style of school. Academics are soft. Children with behavior problems bounce in and out of this school, teachers are left alone to deal with the disruptions. The adherence to safety and handling of injuries at the school is questionable at best and not in line with district requirements. Children are encouraged to tough it out, which has it's benefits, but parents are frequently not notified in a timely manner when children are injured. This school is not for everyone, but it is good to see it become more available to children as an option in education.

Posted April 27, 2014 - a teacher   I was at this school for two years and while it is a beautiful school that offers much more richness than most neighborhood schools can, there is a price to be paid. I have spent twenty years in education and this is the least innovative or creative environment I have been involved with. Children are required to copy the teacher's work and there is very little room for their own thoughts or ideas. In this educational environment, students are taught to rely on others for the "right" answer. Clearly, this leads to less curiosity and innovation than most other alternative schools. The leadership is abysmal at [Waldorf School X] and until the current head of school is replaced, I fear that the school will not be able to truly help kids become the best persons they can be. However, if the right changes are made, this could be an amazing school — there are wonderful teachers who know their profession and will do their best for children if they are allowed to do their jobs in an environment that feels safe, professional and supportive.

Posted April 04, 2014 - a teacher   I used to work at this school before the current administration took over and during the first year the current principal was in control. The school was always disorganized but it got worse my last year at the school. There was a lot of disagreement and contention with the staff and the principal. The principal seemed more concerned about furthering her career and making a name for herself than the school, the ideology and the kids. Many reviews mentioned their child was kicked out after the official student enrollment count from [the government] so the school would still receive money for the child. I can confirm this was 100% the case for many of the years I was employed at the school. The structure of the school was all right, I could easily see favoritism from the teachers towards specific students. A school is supposed to be a place of learning with structure and encouragement but this was not the case. It was more of a hodgepodge of crafts, painting and writing with the staff acting like they were in high school rather than teachers.

Posted January 06, 2014 - a parent   In our first year at [Waldorf School X] our child flourished under a patient teacher who had the whole child's development in mind. We looked forward to a great 2nd year! Only several days into the new school year, our teacher expressed concern about behaviors in our child, which we had never witnessed typifying our child in a way completely different than teachers of the last several years. The teacher's communication lacked discretion and professionalism. Furthermore, we were concerned with both how she spoke to and restrained our child. We then learned from school leadership that this teacher didn't have an hour of formal study in education at all instead was self-studied for the certification exam. They maintained that the 2 teacher openings had not seen a single applicant. Leadership's tone with us included threats and fear-mongering about our child's future. After exhausting all tools to make a change for our child within the context of remaining at [Waldorf School X], we left the school. We were not alone. Today our student is happy & thriving in a classroom with a well-qualified teacher at great [public] school. If you do choose this school, please know the risks and be ready with a Plan B.

Posted November 14, 2013 - a parent   Really look this school over before enrolling your kids. My experience hasn't been close to 5 stars. It looks really great and has some good elements, however the bad out weights the potential good in my opinion. The administration is really heavy-handed and they have quite a bit of turnover with their teachers. That in itself is an issue especially in the format in which they operate (kids stay with one teacher through different grades). This is really not the place if your kids need any sort of extra help — they are not adequately staffed in this area nor are they required to provide what ANY normal (non-charter) school would. There is a lot of patting on the back during the events which gets a bit old. The suggested "donations" per student are high as well. I'm not sold and think one should do a bunch of looking before leaping.

Posted October 25, 2013 - a parent   Don't get fooled! Please do your homework, we could not stay here any longer and it's only October. I had such high hopes. I tried to ignore the bad reviews but in the end the reviews were right this place is lacking in too many key areas.

Posted September 05, 2013 - a parent   All the criticism is spot on, especially regarding the principal and administration. This could be a great school. But it is sadly a terrible school. I'm a teacher and I am appalled at how little my children learned during their one wasted year here. You are better off putting your children in the neighborhood public school. They will actually learn. I'm appalled at how much my children lost academically while here. The only thing good they seemed to have learned is how to knit. I have so much work to do now to reteach them concepts they once knew and to get them caught up to where they should be so they can move forward and start liking school again. The teachers are unable to do much good in this toxic environment. The best solution for this school is to close. I would retract my previous positive review if I could.

Posted August 21, 2013 - a parent   Where do I start? This school is certainly not a fit for children with learning disabilities. They always state that they do not have the resources available to give students that need extra help, the amount of help they deserve or really need to improve. They have been slow on discipline with bullying and seem to give additional chances to those kids that should be expelled that have ongoing behavior problems. It also seems to be a very loose adherence to the Waldorf program. They don't seem to follow the formative/qualitative plan that Waldorf is founded upon. I have been unimpressed by the administration, however many of the teachers are good. I would not recommend this school to anyone.

Posted July 08, 2013 - a parent   I was deceived by the smell of fresh baked bread, the gorgeous campus, wooden toys and the quiet voices, and we had to leave because of bullying and lack of academics. I suspect if parents knew the true origins of Waldorf they might be less than thrilled to send their children here. Unfortunately my child is now struggling in a different public charter school because she is behind. I implore you to Google "Waldorf critics" or "Waldorf watch" before you make the decision to try out this school.

Posted June 25, 2013 - a community member   I will NEVER EVER recommend this school to anyone. My children attended this school for two years and learned how to knit. There is no real curriculum to speak of. It's the most unorganized crazy mess I think I've ever seen. I pulled my children from this school and will never look back. I had them tested last week and they are SOOOO far behind that they will both have to have extensive help and extra tutoring. If I put them in a public school they are at least a grade behind. The administration is seriously lacking in compassion, organization, overall morals and values. The leadership at this school is lacking the skill and knowledge of educational training and mentorship for the students and staff. If you want your child to be ill-prepared for high school and life in general you will send them here. I give this school no stars.

Posted May 16, 2013 - a parent   I absolutely agree with the reviews from the other parents of children with needs. I thought this school would be the answer for my gifted 7 year old with ADHD. After 2 years at [Waldorf School X], his self-esteem has disintegrated and the only reply I can get from the leadership is that "We are a charter school and don't have the resources" to support him. I am getting him out before he is kicked out and before his self-esteem is unable to be repaired.

Posted May 13, 2013 - a community member   Why are so many of the [good] reviews from Jan 18-20th? I smell a rat. It seems very much as though there is a serious problem in the administration at this school and they're trying to cover it up by soliciting good reviews.

Posted January 20, 2013 - a parent   This school is great for children who are quiet, artistic and perfect. My child was asked to leave just after the charter school's "count day" (where their amount of money from [the government] is determined). In other words, they got funding for her for the year but she was kicked out! She was asked to leave because she has special needs. The school would rather kick her out [because] of "bad behavior" than meet her needs. The director is weeding out all of the special needs children who might need an extra hand. To some this might seem good but the children who need the most nurturing help which a Waldorf environment can provide are thrown out into the cold instead of receiving the services they are REQUIRED BY THE STATE to provide. However, if your child is of average intelligence, docile in nature and enjoys art this might be the school for you. That is, if you're a stay-at-home mom because there are no services provided for working families at a rate working families can afford. Also, if you happen to not fit into their idea of "normal" you might be shunned no matter how much love you give to the school. The teachers, however, are the best in the state. Highly trained, very caring.

Posted October 11, 2012 - a parent   I thought my child and I would love this school. They seem to have so many wonderful things going for them. I was wrong. The teachers are awesome. The administration not so. Yes, I agree with a previous post, this school did grow too quickly, out of greed. Yes, the bullying is rampant. Teachers and administration turn a blind eye. Teacher turnover rate should tell you something about the quality of this school. In 2012, three kindergarten teachers, one 1st grade teacher, two 2nd grade teachers, one 3rd grade teacher, one 4/5th grade teacher, music teacher, eurythmy teacher, two special education teachers, and the assessment coordinator left this school. This says a lot. Mind you, there is no librarian, (let alone a quality library), no music teacher, no art teacher. The teachers work hard here. They have no prep time. This effects how prepared they are, and how burned out they become. Frustrated and burned out teachers affect the quality of our children's education. My child deserves better.

Posted October 09, 2012 - a community member   It's really sad that this school has so much potential and so little in the way of leadership. Do not go here if your child has learning problems. You will get no help and maybe even be told to leave.

Posted September 29, 2012 - a parent   One word sums it up nicely. TOXIC. Toxic for the teachers, toxic for the students. It can all be so deceiving. It is a beautiful campus. If you are coming to this school expecting Waldorf philosophy, it isn't here. It is Waldorf-inspired in as much as the main lesson is taught using "some" Waldorf techniques. Looks can be deceiving. Waldorf is more than a lazured painted room, more than a curriculum. This school should not even be saying that it is a Waldorf-inspired school. The administrator does not live the Waldorf philosophy, she talks down to and intimidates the students, along with her teaching staff, and community of parents. The school grew from 40 students to 400 students in just over a year. This is NOT a good thing. If anything it is a sign of greed on the part of the administration. Because of this rapid growth, [Waldorf School X] has attracted students from every walk of life that are not making it. This school is a "catch-all" for all of the kids who aren't succeeding in private and public schools. I have never seen so many high-needs, problem students in one school ever before. ...not a healthy place. ...not where I want my children to be.

Posted August 06, 2012 - a parent   The only "talk of the town" is about how poorly run this school is. Bullying is rampant, the principal has been seen screaming at staff in front of children, talks about children's behavior to other children's parents — very inappropriate — and in general, treats the school as her own little fiefdom. Ask the board of directors about the long list of complaints submitted about the principal and then run, don't walk away from this school. Save yourself the hassle of pulling your child out of the school midway through the year after they [have] fallen behind academically. There are major, major problems with the leadership at the school, teachers are usually ill-prepared and this leads to restlessness among the children and and we have pulled our 2 kids out and know of 6 families that have done the same. DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILDREN TO THIS SCHOOL.

1/22/2014 Lisa S.   I visited this school to ask about enrolling my children after speaking with a parent that spoke very highly of it. Once I found the main office I was completely ignored as administrators mulled around the desk. No one even acknowledged that a complete stranger had walked into their school. Not secure and not friendly.

10/25/2011 Todd J.   This school has only money in mind. We enrolled my son at this charter school and the principle Dr [X] assured us they had everything in place for our son's needs. His mother had three meetings with them and gave them all the information from his prior school. My son is twice exceptional and can get bored easily. 

They state they are Waldorf-inspired but his teacher was not trained in waldorf and had no idea about my son's needs. They waited till after count day and had the state money and then told us they can't deal with him and threatened expulsion. No urgency was given to the matter until after they were paid. No suggestions on how they were going to follow through on there promise of teaching my son was made. All Dr [X] cared about was filling her classrooms for count day and then she was more than happy to get rid of kids. This place is just a money-making business for the owners. They ask that everything be done and donated by the parents. There main focus seems to raise money through a ton of fund-raisers and charging fees. None of our money was refunded by this school. 

This was just evil to put a child through this. We are now having to search out a new school for our son. STAY AWAY FROM THIS SCHOOL!!

Posted December 31, 2011   We enrolled our daughter at [Waldorf School X].  They promised bus transport from [our area] to the [X] Campus, [and] we thought, this is good. Then they told the eighth graders no ballpoint pens were used & no media presentations would be used in the classroom, [and] we thought, that is odd. On the first day of school, there was no bus and no notification that five students would be jammed into a teacher's Buick. We thought, What s going on here? Then, our child and her best friend were repeatedly bullied. The teacher and principle told us it was my child's fault. We said, Enough! This is a little school in a remote canyon that operates on its own set of rules. I m sorry but I thought that when funded by taxpayers, the school had to be worthy of that support! In our opinion, [Waldorf School X] is failing in that mission. Our child was suspended AFTER the October student count. I looked for another school. Everything was infinitely better once we found out about [a different school]. — Submitted by a parent

Posted August 24, 2011   WORST SCHOOL EVER! We were so traumatized by our experience with this so-called school. 12 people that I know of also left this school of 60. Quite a significant percentage. — Submitted by a parent

Posted April 4, 2011   I had my grandsons there. The first year, they were wonderful and truly wanted to help them and help them become the best they could be. The following year after an admin change, they changed drastically. They no longer seemed to care about the children as much. Seemed more interested in who brought the money with them. One of the upper grades teachers actually lied to and about me and had me removed from the games day. One of my grandsons was being terribly abused and all I heard from them was "well, you don't know the whole story" and that was after I was on the playground for recess every day. There are other people who feel the way I do. They are back in the public school and are doing good. But because the education at this school was not up to par, they are behind and the new teachers are trying and doing a good job. I would not recommend this school. — Submitted by a grandparent

Where are the positive reviews of Waldorf education? Where are the testimonials in Waldorf’s favor? You can find them easily enough on the Internet. But be cautious; they may be uninformed or bogus. Some positive Waldorf reviews were written by people still caught up in the enthusiasm so often felt by Waldorf newcomers — individuals who have not yet penetrated the lovely Waldorf facade. And some positive reviews are outright fabrications — fake reviews written by Waldorf insiders trying to mislead the public. Here are a few posted comments that point to such problems. — R.R.

Posted May 13, 2013

- a community member

Why are so many of the [good] reviews from Jan 18-20th? I smell a rat. It seems very much as though there is a serious problem in the administration at this school and they're trying to cover it up by soliciting good reviews.

R.S.

9/3/2013

This Waldorf school is a disaster, and you should all know that the [Waldorf School X] leadership has REQUIRED the entire faculty (I, being a former faculty member) to pose as parents and students and post (bogus) positive reviews on the online school review websites. Everything about this school is a charade — the learning (there isn't much); the administration, board and teachers (more infighting than a WWF match); the parents (most judgmental and hostile group of human beings I've ever seen, posing to be “spiritual"); and the kids (totally out of control bullies and children with major unchecked behavioral issues). These children and parents have such a lack of decorum that they cause solid, caring teachers to lose their jobs by trying to get these spoiled kids to behave. Please save your money and go public... Anything would be better for your child than this school! While some Waldorfs are amazing, this one is not! They are a disgrace to the Waldorf national and international community. — Submitted by a longstanding Waldorf teacher

Posted April 26, 2011

Wow, where do I begin? I will start out on the positive. I think the idea of how [Waldorf School X] says they are going to teach children is great (if it worked, and they were doing what they said they would do! i.e.: see the school's test scores: SCARY!) Umm..the school has a great music program. The positive comments on here have to be from the administration or parents that sadly just don't have a clue. There is no accountability or organization at [Waldorf School X], this is what they call the Waldorf way. Kids need structure or there is chaos. [Waldorf School X]'s name should be CHAOS. The administration is constantly putting out fires that never seem to stop. It is sad and scary to me that this school is able to stay open and be responsible for children learning or lack there of in this case. There are also no textbooks at this school, the kids write there own, no computers, and they ask all the parents to donate $100.00 a month. I will be shocked if this school is still open in the next 5 years. If you have very low standards for your child's education, this is the school for you! [Waldorf School X], where education is not a race — it's a joke! — Submitted by a parent

My children have had to repeat a grade this past year [in their new school] due to the lack of teaching core subjects while at [Waldorf School X] for several years. The positive reviews one sees after negative reviews are written by the marketing dept that trolls the internet. As if by wanting my child to learn, I'm wanting them to be 'burnt out.' Pathetic excuse for the poor academics. It was a waste of time but a lot of fun for sure. Developmental approach is a respectable way if only there were consistency in the teaching, discipline policies and administration. After 12 yrs, this school should be rock-solid, and it's not. The school needs an Administration that will be there for 10 years to really build the school. This one will be gone in a year or so... and then, starting over once again... Reality: the school has a poor reputation out in the larger community from all the families who have left because of problems encountered. — Submitted by a parent on May 17, 2012

8/21/2010

Most of [the positive] reviews are written by board members and parent council. If you choose this school, make sure you get answers often and check on your child's progress.I strongly suggest observing in the classroom, I was truly shocked when I did that. The children in 8th grade cannot spell or write a complete sentence, they cannot do even the basics. They can however draw a great picture and most of them can knit and play recorder if they watch the teacher’s fingers, can't read words well, music not at all.

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