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Alabama Waldorf School actively repudiates racism in all its forms. As Waldorf educators, we hold the dignity of every human being at the center of our work. Our school is founded on the principles of education developed by Rudolf Steiner, and we acknowledge that Steiner did express racist ideas in some of his writings. However, our school rejects all ideas that state or imply that any person or group of people is inherently inferior to any other person or group of people. These ideas are not a basis for our curriculum or our pedagogical approach. We actively affirm that all people — of all creeds, cultures, and communities — are inherently worthy and deserving of our respect and welcome. The college of teachers adheres to its free authority to make decisions and develop the curriculum of our school. We do not condone or endorse any of Steiner’s depictions of gender, religion, or racial hierarchy, and we actively oppose any racialist understanding of evolution. It is our responsibility to bear witness to what is happening in the world, to elevate the voices of marginalized people, to change the course of inequities, and to break down structural prejudice in all forms where it exists. We are committed to the continued pursuit of improving diversity, equity, and inclusion in our school community for the sake of transforming the lives of our students, families, and community for generations to follow. We affirm and embrace all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, knowing that every person makes a rich and valuable contribution to our education and school life. As part of our ongoing efforts to further these principles of equity and inclusion, our strategic plan includes increased representation in the student body, faculty, and board of diverse backgrounds, genders, and identities; providing supplemental training and support for faculty and staff on BIPOC, LGBTQ+, ability level, and religious inclusivity; establishing hiring recruitment practices that reach a greater number of candidates of color; addressing the heavily white/Euro-centric curricula by incorporating more multicultural stories, histories, and ways of knowing; and redeveloping our annual festival celebrations to reflect the diversity of culture among our students and families. Please read more from the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America. < Back Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Alabama Waldorf School actively repudiates racism in all its forms. As Waldorf educators, we hold the dignity of every human being at the center of our work. Alabama Waldorf School actively repudiates racism in all its forms. As Waldorf educators, we hold the dignity of every human being at the center of our work. Our school is founded on the principles of education developed by Rudolf Steiner, and we acknowledge that Steiner did express racist ideas in some of his writings. However, our school rejects all ideas that state or imply that any person or group of people is inherently inferior to any other person or group of people. These ideas are not a basis for our curriculum or our pedagogical approach. We actively affirm that all people — of all creeds, cultures, and communities — are inherently worthy and deserving of our respect and welcome. The college of teachers adheres to its free authority to make decisions and develop the curriculum of our school. We do not condone or endorse any of Steiner’s depictions of gender, religion, or racial hierarchy, and we actively oppose any racialist understanding of evolution. It is our responsibility to bear witness to what is happening in the world, to elevate the voices of marginalized people, to change the course of inequities, and to break down structural prejudice in all forms where it exists. We are committed to the continued pursuit of improving diversity, equity, and inclusion in our school community for the sake of transforming the lives of our students, families, and community for generations to follow. We affirm and embrace all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, knowing that every person makes a rich and valuable contribution to our education and school life. As part of our ongoing efforts to further these principles of equity and inclusion, our strategic plan includes increased representation in the student body, faculty, and board of diverse backgrounds, genders, and identities; providing supplemental training and support for faculty and staff on BIPOC, LGBTQ+, ability level, and religious inclusivity; establishing hiring recruitment practices that reach a greater number of candidates of color; addressing the heavily white/Euro-centric curricula by incorporating more multicultural stories, histories, and ways of knowing; and redeveloping our annual festival celebrations to reflect the diversity of culture among our students and families. Please read more from the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America. Previous Next

A week of imaginative adventure where children become the heroes of their own stories and build a world of their own creation. Through storytelling and activities, campers design their own realms! The Hero’s Adventure Camp Cost $225 Grades Rising 1-8 Duration 1 Week Begins July 13, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Register < Back About this Camp Enter a week of imaginative adventure where children become the heroes of their own stories and build a world of their own creation. Through storytelling and hands-on crafts and activities, campers design their own realms—complete with maps, shields, flags, and more—while exploring creativity, collaboration, and good sportsmanship. Each child leaves with a collection of their work, including a handmade book, kingdom map, coat of arms, and other creations to remember their experience. Register Your Camp Teacher Em Lundberg As a former Extended Care teacher at our school, Em continues her work guiding children through afternoons of fun and exploration. We are so happy to have her with us this summer to lead Extended Day and Camps!

< Back Lisa Moyer Nursery Teacher Lisa Moyer is a gentle presence in the nursery classroom. She moves with ease, caring for her students in the most intentional of ways. Advocacy is part of Lisa's being. With advanced degrees in sociology and public health (with a focus on Maternal and Child Health), her community-centered experience is valued by both faculty and families as she guides our youngest learners through developmental milestones. We are so grateful for the bright light Lisa is in our school community and beyond.

Preschool Summer Sessions provide a continuation of our Early Childhood programs, providing enrolled families educational and seasonal support during the Nursery and Kindergarten years. Summer Session 1 5 Days $625 3 Days $400 Duration 4 Weeks Dates June 1, 2026 June 26, 2026 - Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Register < Back About Summer Sessions Preschool Summer Sessions follow the Alabama Waldorf School Early Childhood Curriculum and classroom rhythms. During Summer Sessions young children can find comfort and security in the rhythm, social interactions, and play time they enjoy. Each Summer Session, much like the school year, begins at 8:30 am with pick-up at 12:30 pm. Also similar to the school year program, Extended Care is available to families who sign an Extended Care Contract at the time of registration and enrollment. Summer Sessions: Provide Consistent Routines. Young children will maintain daily rhythms similar to those they experience throughout the school year. These rhythms will continue to contribute to a child's feeling of security and stability at school. Encourage Social Interaction. Building relationships with other children fosters a sense of confidence as they form connections and friendships their community. Support Emotional Well-Being. Children experience a sense of purpose and accomplishment when they participate in age-appropriate activities and purposeful play at school. Enhance Skill Development: Summer Sessions incorporate educational and developmental activities that contribute to a child's skill development. Age-appropriate learning experiences enhances their sense of competence and strengthens their natural abilities. Register Extended Care and Important Dates Extended Care is available to all Summer Session students. If you would like Extended Care to be part of your child's summer schedule, please submit a Summer Extended Care Contract. There will be no summer preschool on Friday, June 19, 2026, in observance of Juneteenth. Your Child's Teachers Preschool Teachers Our teachers' commitment to holistic education continues through the summer as they support the growth and well-being of the children in their care during Preschool Summer Sessions.

The third grade curriculum speaks to the consciousness of the child who is turning nine. As this age, the child becomes more self-aware, and there can be a new sense of distance from the joys of early childhood. < Back Third Grade The third grade curriculum speaks to the consciousness of the child who is turning nine. As this age, the child becomes more self-aware, and there can be a new sense of distance from the joys of early childhood. Curriculum by Subject Mathematics: Times tables, columnar addition and subtraction, carrying and borrowing Science: Farm life, food production English & Grammar: Simple grammar, writing, speech work, plays Literature: Hebrew stories, poetry, and reading World Languages: Conversations, time, food, basic grammar, complex commands, simple stories Geography: House building, farming, clothing History: Old Testament stories as a part of ancient history Previous Next

< Back Emily LaRussa Teacher Apprentice Emily LaRussa brings a mellow, approachable presence, a bright smile, and positive energy to her work with children and families. With a strong background in child development, early intervention strategies, and Social Emotional Learning, she creates calm, nurturing environments where children can thrive. Known for her warmth and collaborative spirit, Emily is dedicated to fostering growth, creativity, and connection.

Alabama Waldorf School is located in the Crestwood neighborhood of Birmingham, Alabama, serving children Nursery - Grade 8. Welcome to Alabama Waldorf School Educating The Whole Child Schedule a Tour Why Alabama Waldorf School? Our children need a well-rounded education that fosters resilience, adaptability, compassion, and confidence. They need a purposeful daily rhythm that combines core academics, artistic exploration, musical immersion, and mindful movement to support the growth of each individual student. We welcome you to Alabama Waldorf School. Learn More Our Programs Early Childhood Through Grade 8 Nursery and Kindergarten Early Childhood Alabama Waldorf Early Childhood Education program emphasizes play, creativity, and nature, guiding young learners as they grow through a daily rhythm. Learn More Grades 1-5 Elementary School Alabama Waldorf Elementary School program fosters well-rounded development through arts-integrated learning, nurturing curiosity and critical thinking. Learn More Grades 6-8 Middle School Alabama Waldorf Middle School offers interdisciplinary studies, focusing on hands-on experiences and independent thinking for pre-adolescent students. Learn More More than half of our faculty members have advanced degrees and/or more than 10 years of teaching experience. Our Admissions Process The first step in our admissions processes is scheduling a tour. Tours are scheduled on Thursdays by appointment only. During this time, you will have the opportunity to explore our campus and learn more about Waldorf Education philosophies and the role they play in curriculum development. At the end of each tour, families receive an application along with an outline of our enrollment and registration process. Schedule A Tour About Admissions

Register your child for Alabama Waldorf School’s Preschool Summer Sessions. Designed for enrolled nursery and kindergarten students, these play-based programs offer nurturing care, seasonal activities, and joyful connection. Preschool Summer Registration Summer Registration for 2026 is now open! Preschool Summer Session Registration Your First name Your Phone Number Your Last name Email Child's First Name Child's Last Name Child's Date of Birth * required Your Child's Program (Nursery is FULL) Choose an option Selct your session: * Required (5 Days) Summer Session 1 & 2 (5 Days) Summer Session 1 (5 Days) Summer Session 2 (3 Days) Summer Session 1 & 2 (3 Days) Summer Session 1 (3 Days) Summer Session 2 Nursery Summer Sessions are now full. Join Nursery Summer Sessions Waitlist I understand that the $45 registration fee is due immediately, and that Summer Session fees will be applied in my TADS account with payments due June 1. I understand that there is no financial aid available for the summer program tuition. I give permission for Alabama Waldorf School Faculty to apply sunscreen on my child as needed throughout the day. I give permission for Alabama Waldorf School Faculty to apply deet-free bugspray on my child throughout the day. I have provided Alabama Waldorf School with the most current allergy, emergency, and contact information available to me at this time. I understand placement will be based on availability. Go to Checkout Thank you for submitting your registration. You will receive an email from Administration within 48 hours regarding your child's placement.

Alabama Waldorf School began as The Redmont School in the Waldorf Tradition and was initiated by a small group of Birmingham-area parents who desired a more well-rounded and creative educational experience for their young children than what was readily available in 1987. It has grown from a basement daycare to a flourishing school with its 4-acre campus. Multi-age programs in Nursery, Kindergarten, and Grades culminate to prepare students to enter high school with compassion, confidence and an academic foundation permeated with joy. Our graduates continue their education in competitive public and private high schools and then beyond in their chosen universities. From its inception, the school has developed because of the knowledge, dedication, and hard work of the school’s founders, supporters, parents, and educators. The school was accredited in November 2015 by the Southeastern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and in March 2016 by the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA). AWS is also accredited by the Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America (WECAN). < Back Our Story In 1983, a group of Birmingham parents began discussing their children's education and their desire for a well-rounded and creative educational experience. By 1985, regular meetings of about 15 families and educators were being held at the home of Delbert and Robert Long (UAB Department of Education) to discuss focus, intentions, and plans for a new school. This school would become, what is now, Alabama Waldorf School. Alabama Waldorf School began as The Redmont School in the Waldorf Tradition and was initiated by a small group of Birmingham-area parents who desired a more well-rounded and creative educational experience for their young children than what was readily available in 1987. It has grown from a basement daycare to a flourishing school with its 4-acre campus. Multi-age programs in Nursery, Kindergarten, and Grades culminate to prepare students to enter high school with compassion, confidence and an academic foundation permeated with joy. Our graduates continue their education in competitive public and private high schools and then beyond in their chosen universities. From its inception, the school has developed because of the knowledge, dedication, and hard work of the school’s founders, supporters, parents, and educators. The school was accredited in November 2015 by the Southeastern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and in March 2016 by the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA). AWS is also accredited by the Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America (WECAN). Previous Next

< Back Student Medication Form Your express permission is required to administer medication or medical procedures to your child. Any prescription drug, over-the-counter-drug, or homeopathic medicine must be in its original container and be clearly labeled. Complete Student Medication Form Previous Next

< Back Report Student Absence All student absences require submitting notification to the Administrative Office. Please continue reading to access the absentee notification link and learn more about excused and unexcused absences. Report My Student's Absence Previous Next

Review Alabama Waldorf School’s illness protocol to know when children should stay home, when they may return to school, and how we work together to protect the health of our community. Illness Protocol When should I keep my child home from school? How long should they stay home from school? All your illness protocol questions answered. Management and Mitigation Do not send your child to school if you suspect they may be ill or have exhibited any of the following signs or symptoms. Contact the office, and your healthcare provider to assess the next steps. All absences must be reported. An elevated temperature at or over 100 degrees taken orally, or 100.4 taken temporally during the last 24 hours. Vomiting within the last 24 hours. Repeated episodes of diarrhea within the last 24 hours. Chills, loss of appetite, unusual fatigue, numbness of mouth, and/or lingering headache. A significant amount of nasal discharge, particularly if the discharge is yellow or greenish in color. A persistent cough. A significant sore throat. A significant rash. All contagious and communicable diseases (viruses, RSV, chickenpox, measles, pinworms, lice, etc.) must be immediately reported to the school office so that we may comply with reporting requirements. Individual names of affected students will not be shared in any school communication. To manage the spread of infections at school, and to allow children to fully recover: Please keep your child home for 24 hours following:Cessation of fever Symptoms of a common cold Vomiting Diarrhea Any other indication of contagious illness In the case of fever (oral temperature above 100 degrees, temporal 100.4 or higher), the child needs to be fever-free without medication for 24 hours before returning to school. A note from your child's physician may be required to return. Mask Wearing Alabama Waldorf School is following a Mask Optional policy for both indoors and outdoors. Mask optional does not mean we are no longer wearing masks at all. It means faculty/staff, parents (for their children and themselves), visitors, etc. can make the decision that is best for them. It means that the school reserves the right, at any time, to return to universal masking if it is deemed a necessary safety measure based on local caseloads and CDC guidelines. Parents are asked to inform their child’s teacher(s) should they wish for their child to continue to remain masked, and teachers will honor and encourage this choice. All students may continue to bring a mask to school, and masks are also available in the office. Air Quality Information MERV 13 filters have been installed in all HVAC units. These are changed out monthly, as recommended. Bathroom vent fans will run at all times when children are in the classroom. HEPA air purifiers (in room units) will run at all times when children are in the classroom (one unit per classroom). Humidity will be monitored to maintain a 40-60% level, humidifiers will be added to the classroom if determined as necessary. Air conditioners will be set at or below 74 when room is in use, and turned up to 78 when not in use. Units will not be turned off.

< Back After School Activities After School Activities are for currently enrolled grade students and begin at 3:05 when their core programs end for the day. Children enrolled in these activities may either be picked-up at 4:05 when their activity ends or attend Afternoon Extended Care until 5:30 pm. View After School Activities Previous Next

A week filled with classic hands on summer camp creativity, crafts, games, and songs. Each project will encourage creativity and personal expression, celebrating the timeless traditions of summer camp! Traditional Camp Crafts Cost $225 Grades Rising 1-8 Duration 1 Week Begins June 8, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Register < Back About this Camp A full week filled with the joy of classic, hands-on summer camp creativity. Campers will dive into crafts, games, and songs that capture the spirit of long summer days spent making and playing together. Each thoughtfully designed project encourages imagination, creativity, and personal expression, while honoring the timeless arts-and-crafts traditions that make summer camp such a magical and memorable experience. Register Your Camp Teacher Meredyth Moss The Grades Teacher Aide here at Alabama Waldorf School, Meredyth continues her work guiding children through mornings of fun and exploration. We are so happy to have her with us again this summer!

< Back Extended Care Alabama Waldorf School's Extended Care program is available to enrolled preschool and grades students. To meet the needs of our busy parents, we provide a comfortable and wholesome environment for students from 7:30 am - 5:30 pm. Complete Extended Care Form View Extended Care Fees Previous Next

< Back Meredyth Moss Grades Teacher Aide Meredyth Moss joins us this year as our Grades Teacher Aide, bringing a spirit of creativity and warmth that shines through in her work with students each day. With hands-on experience supporting children ages 0-13 in both classroom and extracurricular settings, Meredyth guides young minds through playful, artistic, and skill-building activities that foster growth and curiosity. We are deeply grateful for the enthusiasm and joy Meredyth brings to our community.

< Back Parent & Guardian Handbook We welcome you to utilize this handbook as a resource and a guide to policies, procedures, and your role as a member of the Alabama Waldorf Community. View 2025-2026 Parent and Guardian Handbook Previous Next

Monthly Giving Thank you for considering a donation to Alabama Waldorf School. Your donation goes towards the support of our students. Monthly Giving Options Monthly Donor $ 10 10$ Every month Monthly donors contribute consistently each month to help support our school's ongoing operations. Select Subscription to our quarterly donor newsletter Nurturing Donor $ 25 25$ Every month Nurturing donors provide a higher level of support that enables the planning of long-term projects. Select 5% off Ticketed Community Events (2 Tickets per Event) Subscription to our quarterly donor newsletter Sustaining Member $ 50 50$ Every month Sustaining Members play a significant role in our school's ability to create positive impact. Select 10% off Ticketed Community Events (2 Tickets per Event) Subscription to our quarterly donor newsletter Blooming Benefactor $ 100 100$ Every month Blooming Benefactor contributions significantly impact Alabama Waldorf School's capacity for growth. Select 20% off Ticketed Community Events (2 per Tickets Event) Invitation to our 2026 Annual Donor Lunch Would you like to update your existing monthly contribution? Please email advancement@alabamawaldorf.org .

Alabama Waldorf Elementary School program (Grades 1-6) fosters well-rounded development through arts-integrated learning, nurturing curiosity and critical thinking. Extended Care programs are also offered for Elementary-age students. < Back Elementary School Alabama Waldorf Elementary School program (Grades 1-6) fosters well-rounded development through arts-integrated learning, nurturing curiosity and critical thinking. Extended Care programs are also offered for Elementary-age students. The Waldorf Educational philosophy is uniquely responsive to each unique phase of a child's development. The relationship between student and teacher is an important and meaningful one throughout childhood and early adolescence. At Alabama Waldorf School, from first to eighth grade, our students stay with the same teacher, looping with their teacher each year. As a result, their class becomes a kind of family, with the teacher as the guide. Within this ideal environment, your student comes to know and respect their teacher, and over the years, the teacher can discover the healthiest ways to educate each child. Students who begin first grade at Alabama Waldorf School experience new subjects. These include core curriculum taught by their class teacher as well as Spanish, Russian, Handwork, and Music. At the beginning of their second-grade year, the class welcomes new first graders, thus becoming a "combined" grade class. These will be their classmates until graduation at the end of grade eight. In Waldorf Education, a "combined" class is a desirable alternative to the now-pervasive grade-by-grade curriculum introduced in the mid-19th century. Although combined class concepts vary by name and detail throughout the world, we use the terms "combined grades" and "multiage classrooms" for our school. One of the intentions guiding our planning of multiage classrooms and combined grades are that they serve the students' individual needs. They allow each student to progress using developmentally appropriate practices to support their learning continuim. From this place of intentional instruction and guidance from their teacher, a lifelong love of learning develops. While traditional schools continue to become incresingly focused on acedemic achievement, multiage classrooms grow from a pedagogical foundation and have a broader view of educational success. "Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity." Kay Redfield Jamison, American Psychologist and Author Previous Next

< Back Andrea Holley Kindergarten Teacher Andrea Holley brings over 18 years of teaching to our kindergarten program. Andrea brings with her not only valuable experience as a teacher but as an alumni parent as well. Her seasoned approach is one the children respond to with excitement. Always nurturing and engaging, Andrea ignites curiosity in each of her students. We are so incredibly grateful for Andrea and the joy-filled laughter she brings to our school.