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 Oregon Department of Education Website. I found the
School's performance claims to be inaccurate.
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 accomodate 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 capabilites. The teacher
has NOTHING to change. The onus is always on the child. The school is a
great fit if you are from Portland, of European descent (white) and
your children do not have learning disabilities.
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.
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!
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!
