Why Inclusivity Matters in Education

Inclusivity and belonging is at the heart of our mission, both as a core value and as an educational tool in Waldorf Education. Our curriculum immerses students in diverse cultural experiences, languages, world history, literature and religions.

How does Waldorf curriculum build inclusivity?

Starting in 1st grade, students have weekly language classes in both Spanish and Mandarin, allowing them to understand other cultures and ways of thinking and grow into confident, adaptable and empathetic citizens of the world. Our curriculum spans an incredibly diverse range of studies from the Old Testament to Norse Mythology, Ancient India to Ancient Greece and so much more. Our teachers intentionally build an open-minded, curious approach to connecting with other people, cultures, religions and ways of life. Waldorf Education is not religiously affiliated in anyway. Instead, students are exposed to religions, cultures and the history of people from all around the world as they travel from 1st to 8th Grade. Explore the full range of our curriculum in the overview here. Whenever possible, our teacher collaborate with the people and voices in our community who can share their perspectives and authentic experiences, first-hand. For example, during 4th grade studies of local history, teachers have partnered with the Aspen Historical Society to have the only local member of the Ute Tribe speak directly to 4th grade students about the experience of growing up on a reservation and the history of the Ute People in our local area.

How is diversity built community-wide?

Our community is made up of families from across the Roaring Fork Valley, coming from a diverse range of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds. Our unique, Individualized Tuition Adjustment Process (I-TAP) allows us, as a non-profit school, dependent on tuition, to work one-on-one with every family wishing to pursue Waldorf Education for their family. As a result, our community includes over 40% of families with adjusted tuition and an invaluable diversity in the backgrounds and biographies of our families. We strongly encourage families to have a conversation with our team before concluding on the financial viability of Waldorf Education for your family.

Research published by American University has found that diversity within community “improves Cognitive Skills and Critical Thinking” as well as “prepares students for citizenship”, and promotes creativity. WSRF is committed to supporting and continuing to build diversity in our community and working with every individual family to make this education viable for as many families as possible.

Ready to explore WSRF more for your family?

Start a conversation now with our admissions team to discover the impact a community-focused education could have on your family and student.