Detroit Waldorf School

My son was attending Kindergarten elsewhere when I attended the orientation at DWS. I looked into Waldorf, as well as various public, private, and charter schools in hopes of finding a school that better fit the needs of my child. I recall the sense of relief I felt when I attended the DWS orientation / tour and learned more about the Waldorf philosophy; and my amazement when I saw the impressive work produced by the students. I was in awe when DWS requested to assess my son for a week before deciding which grade to place him in. I had finally found a school that wanted to know who my child was and what he was capable of before placing expectations on him. I cannot imagine a better educational model than the one we have found at DWS, which takes my child's intellectual, emotional, and physical needs and abilities into consideration, and provides the freedom and structure necessary for him to thrive. I could never express in words how much I value the peace of mind that comes from the confidence I have in the education my son receives at Detroit Waldorf School.
—Submitted by a parent

We have two children in the lower grades at DWS and cannot imagine sending them anywhere else. We love the diversity, the strong sense of community, small class sizes, challenging curriculum -- and the fact that Waldorf teaches kids how to THINK and CREATE. The tuition is in line with other independent, private schools. Also, be advised that the rating for "principal leadership" isn't really applicable to a Waldorf school, as it it guided by a team of faculty and administrators.
—Submitted by a parent

We love the community, the commitment to each individual within the community, and how each child is valued for the unique qualities and contributions. A wonderful education.
—Submitted by a parent

As for extracurrricular activites, as a parent I feel the neccesary tools and subjects are not emphasize enough on preparing the children towards higher education (high school), such as Math, Reading, Science and American History instead of so much Mid- Evil History. Too much emphasis foucus on Nature.
—Submitted by a parent

A true sense of community; a top education.
—Submitted by a parent

I can honestly say you can not find a better education. The Waldorf education is unique, hands on and works not only with the child but the entire family. If you are going to go private Waldorf is your answer. The teachers are fantastic and truly love children, their job and fit. Waldorf is your choice for an excellect education.
—Submitted by a parent

Truly excellent school; small class size allows excellent personal attention, however very small classes can be socially limiting. The curriculum is designed for producing thinking, creative children, not just memorization-droids. Although we moved away, my child who attended for most of her elementary is now reading three grades ahead of her level at her new school. The school is rather expensive, however; and their unique style requires a committment at least until 4-5th grade otherwise your child's development will be very out of step with mainstream schools. If you can afford to go through the 8th, you won't be disappointed by your child's academic development. Re: Principal leadership - not applicable here because the school is run by concensus of the staff; there is rotating leadership role but there is no principal.
—Submitted by a parent

I've had two kids spend time at this wonderful school. Its hard to describe the atmosphere here; but its just seems like the kids are really happy and having a good time. The philosophy can be a little hard to take, expecially for those of us of the 'type -A' breed - but its definitely worth giving it a try. My son who has been out of Waldorf for several years, still excells in all his subjects - and I give this school all the credit for his creativity and open-mindedness.
—Submitted by a parent

I am actually not a parent, I am a student who just recently graduated from the school. I could not ever be able to stop raving about this school because it is such an amazing place. It is, in a sense, a safe, sheltered haven where creativity, compassion, personal discipline and every other good quality imaginable are not only taught, but thrive. I consider myself a better person after attending this fine institution.

This school has worked within its very special philosophy, to help my child improve in the areas where she needed extra help, while celebrating her strengths giving her that all important self esteem. Waldorf offers more than an education, it offers a community where your child as well as the rest of your family can learn and grow in a web of support and dedication. It's truly a wonder. I can't recommend it enough.
—Submitted by a parent

DWS is a unique school among Waldorf schools, and Waldorf schools are remarkable places where the curriculum is very well thought out, integrated within each year and through the years, and designed with a perceptive understanding of the developmental needs of children. My children have thrived at DWS, a gift within the metropolitan Detroit community, and carry with them a natural, confident love of learning.
—Submitted by a parent

Detroit Waldorf Schools is a God send for educating children through developing strong academic minds, developing and enhancing artistic talents, and nurturing a strong sense of moral conscience. I have 4 children in the school. Each has his/her own intersts and personality. The teaching staff and school adminstrators are great. Because of the quaint settings and small class to teacher ratio, they are able to provide the attention every child needs to flourish. Most students upon graduting are accepted at their 1st choice schools. Great at preparing young students for tomorrow's world.
—Submitted by a parent

Detroit Waldorf is a very wonderful school.At Waldorf childern are aloud to find themselfs through painting, music,theater,and other learning styls. I would recamend Detroit Waldorf to any parent who cares for their child as much as I do.
—Submitted by a parent