Welcome to
Our Community
A place of belonging where every child can grow, thrive, and discover their purpose.
Founded in 1997, the Waldorf School of Bend is an independent, non-profit school offering holistic and developmentally aligned education for children from toddler through 8th grade. Nestled in beautiful Central Oregon, our school is a place where childhood is protected, curiosity is nurtured, and learning unfolds through meaningful human connection.
At Waldorf, we believe education is more than academics. It is the gradual unfolding of the whole human being. We guide students to grow into socially conscientious, independent thinkers who care for humanity and the natural world. In a world that is rapidly changing, we know our future depends on young people who carry resilience, flexibility, imagination, and strength of character.
Our curriculum weaves together the arts, movement, nature, hands-on work, and rigorous academics. Whether a student is painting a story from ancient history, knitting a hat, conducting a chemistry experiment, or stepping onto the stage for a class play, learning is joyful, experiential, and closely connected to the developmental needs of each age.
Our youngest learners are held in a warm, play-based environment supported by caring teachers who understand the importance of rhythm, sensory nourishment, and imaginative play. This gentle foundation helps children grow into confident, secure, capable human beings.
As students move through the grades, they encounter a curriculum that challenges their intellect, expands their curiosity, and invites them to discover their unique gifts and passions. Each lesson is designed to meet the child at the right time and in the right way, which fosters independent thought, purposeful action, and heartfelt engagement with the world.
Above all, the Waldorf School of Bend is a community. Parents, teachers, and children grow together through festivals, traditions, and everyday moments of connection.
To inspire curious minds, compassionate hearts, and capable hands while nurturing independent thought, purposeful action, and heartfelt service and care to the world.
Our Vision
Our Values
Nurturing the Whole Human Being
We support the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual growth of every child. Learning unfolds at the right pace and in the right way, nurturing curiosity, capability, and a lifelong love of discovery.
Growing Together in Community
We grow together—children, parents, and teachers—through shared festivals, relationships, and daily acts of care. Our community surrounds each child with warmth, belonging, and a sense of shared purpose.
Cultivating Reverence and Wonder
We meet the world with wonder, gratitude, and deep respect for childhood. Through beauty, rhythm, and meaningful traditions, we cultivate an atmosphere that inspires children to see the world as good, true, and full of possibility.
Teaching with
Purpose and Presence
We teach with intention, presence, and an understanding of what children need at each stage. Through hands-on work, artistic experiences, sensory-rich environments, and nature-based learning, curiosity becomes the pathway to mastery.
Parent Community
One of the things that makes our school special is the unwavering commitment of our parents.
Waldorf School of Bend has a thriving community of parents who derive meaning and connection through volunteering, social gatherings, school-wide assemblies, and many special events and festivals that carry forward beautiful Waldorf traditions through ceremony and celebration. This dedication cultivates lasting relationships between not only our students, but our parents as well.
