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Grades Curriculum First Grade Children come to first grade full of curiosity. Their teachers foster a love of learning and a connection to the world while building foundational academic and social skills in an atmosphere of warmth and reverence. Read More Second Grade Building on the foundation of first grade, second graders grow in confidence and ability. The curriculum expands and deepens language arts and mathematics skills through engaging and active lessons. Students continue to joyfully discover the world in a loving, reverent environment. Read More 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. Read More Fourth Grade Fourth grade marks a clear change in the work the students do and what is expected of them. The habits and skills that have been developed are now put to use in tackling new and varied subjects. Read More Fifth Grade In fifth grade, children begin to observe and become curious about what is coming in their teen years. Some are beginning to experience these changes in themselves. It is a time for reflection, solidifying foundations, and exploration. Read More Sixth Grade Sixth grade students are often interested in establishing structure and order, and in finding lawful relationships. Lessons are aligned with these interests as well as the development of academic organization, multitasking, and artistic expressions of academic learning. Read More Seventh Grade In seventh grade, children are transitioning from a feeling-based curriculum to thinking-based learning and higher academics. Through this transition, they become full and active participants and discover their creative voices. Read More Eighth Grade In eighth grade, students begin analyzing historical and cultural movements, deepening their capacity for judgment, and formalized testing. Read More Schedule A Tour

Alabama Waldorf School teaches the whole child. Our educational approach is balanced and nurturing. Waldorf Education principles guide our teaching philosophy and daily rhythms help children to feel safe and confident. About Alabama Waldorf School Alabama Waldorf School teaches the whole child. Our educational approach is balanced and nurturing. Waldorf Education principles guide our teaching philosophy and daily rhythms help children to feel safe and confident. We hold and cherish the individuality of each child, fostering their unique qualities and talents. Our dedicated community inspires creativity, develops critical thinking, and establishes a love for lifelong learning. We believe that education should reach beyond textbooks. Alabama Waldorf School's curriculum encourages children to explore the world around them, using the natural world and their social environment as gentle teachers. Drawing from the richness of nature, our classrooms are transformed into vibrant spaces where natural materials and resources play a pivotal role. Through hands-on activities and experiences, students of all ages develop a profound appreciation for the environment and learn how to preserve and protect it. This approach to education instills a strong sense of community among students, teachers, and parents. We believe that collaboration and mutual respect are the cornerstones of a thriving educational experience. Schedule A Tour Our Values and Our History Our Mission and Vision Our mission is to cultivate healthy, confident, compassionate learners who excel academically, socially, and civically. Read More 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. Read More 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. Read More Waldorf Education Waldorf Education, at its core, began as an educational philosophy. Over time, and significantly in recent years, Waldorf Education philosophy has become more well-known. It is now supported and cherished by over 1,200 Waldorf School Communities around the world. Read More

After School Activities For Enrolled Grades Students Sessions Begin Fall 2025 3:05 pm (No After School Activities on School Holidays) Waldorf Explorers Led by: Ms. Carol Intended for: Grades 1-5 In Waldorf Explorers students will embark on exciting adventures through activities inspired by scouting. Price $150 Duration 8 Classes (Thursdays) Read More

Job Listings Job Type Select Job Type Workspace Select Workspace Search Jobs Number of jobs found: 2 Preschool Substitute Teacher Birmingham, AL, USA View Job Grades Substitute Teacher Birmingham, AL, USA View Job

Resources for Enrolled Families School Year Calendar Read More After School Activities Read More Financial Aid Read More Tuition Rates Read More Extended Care Read More Report Student Absence Read More Illness Protocol Read More Community Pledge Read More TADS Login Read More Student Medication Form Read More Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Read More Family Association Read More Parent & Guardian Handbook Read More School Directory Request Read More

Ways to Give Monthly Giving Your gift nurtures a community space for children to flourish and to cultivate academic intellect, emotional intelligence, and social consciousness. You create opportunities for each child to find a sense of belonging, joy for their work, and awaken their ability to reach their fullest potential through a lifelong love of learning. Monthly Giving Fund-A-Need Fund-A-Need donations allow you to select an item, project, or activity our school is in need of and direct your donation to that specific need. It's simple to do! Our teachers have created a list of items that are needed. We encourage you to explore our Fund-A-Need page, the item descriptions, and fund one of our needs if you feel inspired to do so. Fund-A-Need Donate Today Your generosity supports our dedication to providing an enriching education for Alabama Waldorf School students. As a non-profit school, we find strength in the support we receive to maintain vibrant classrooms, a curriculum intertwined with nature, and an environment that inspires curiosity. Your gift holds the power to ignite our students' sense of wonder, sustaining our commitment to excellence in arts, academics, and character education. Donate Today Become A Benefactor Alabama Waldorf School's Annual Fund impacts all of the tangible needs so our teachers can focus on each child's growing mind and spirit. Tuition alone does not cover what it takes to educate our students. The Annual Fund seeks to cover 20% of expenses that are not met by tuition and helps maintain the generous financial aid program that assists over 35% of our families. Your gift in any amount serves to bridge the gap and allows our school to thrive. Become A Benefactor

Summer Camps For Students Grades Rising 1-8 Registration is Now Open! Magical Mystical Camp Come make crafts with Ms. Langford, inspired by the starry heavens. Sun, moon, stars and rainbows will guide our imaginations. These celestial guides will lead our imaginations as we create together. Cost Duration Grades $225 1 Week Rising 1st - 8th Begins Monday, June 1, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Read More Traditional Camp Crafts 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! Cost Duration Grades $225 1 Week Rising 1-8 Begins Monday, June 8, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Read More Friends of the Earth We will take gentle guidance from Nature as we make crafts with Ms. Langford, slowing down to observe the world around us. Flowers, leaves, trees, feathers, and the earth herself will speak through our art. Cost Duration Grades $185 4 Days Rising 1-8 Begins Monday, June 15, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Read More Cosmic Kids Yoga Camp Through yoga, games, art projects, and simple hands-on activities, campers will learn about astrology and their own zodiac sign in a developmentally appropriate way with storytelling & imagination. Cost Duration Grades $225 1 Week Rising 1-5 Begins Monday, June 29, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Read More Fairies & Gnomes Camp Step into a week of woodland magic with Em Lundberg as children create fairy gardens, build gnome huts, craft wings and gnome hats, and explore nature in search of fairy and gnome sightings! Cost Duration Grades $225 1 Week Rising 1-8 Begins Monday, June 22, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Read More Ocean Adventures Each day includes ocean-themed art projects, fun games, and movement activities that bring learning to life. A week filled with creativity, discovery, and seaside adventure awaits! Cost Duration Grades $225 1 Week Rising 1-8 Begins Monday, July 6, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Read More Crafts with Ms. Carol Campers will experiment with a variety of art media inspired by the beauty of nature—painting, drawing, and mixed materials—while creating a special collaborative artwork that celebrates creativity and teamwork. Cost Duration Grades $225 1 Week Rising 1-5 Begins Monday, July 20, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Read More The Hero’s Adventure Camp 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! Cost Duration Grades $225 1 Week Rising 1-8 Begins Monday, July 13, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Read More Summer Blast Fun Camp End the summer with a burst of color, creativity, and sunshine! Campers will design their own T-shirts, enjoy a dance party, and more! Make summer snacks, explore nature, and celebrate with friends! Cost Duration Grades $225 1 Week Rising 1-8 Begins Monday, July 27, 2026 Times 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Read More Extended Day Camp Stay and play after morning Summer Camp! Extended Day Camp is for children attending summer camps and is from 12:30 to 3:00 pm. Activities will include water play, arts and crafts, and more! Cost Duration Grades $75 Weekly Rising 1 - 8 Begins Monday, June 1, 2026 Times 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Read More

Faculty Holly Thompson (She/Her) Nursery Teacher In addition to her position as Nursery Team Lead, Holly is also a dedicated Chair to our College of Teachers and an alumni parent. Carol Cornelius (She/Her) Nursery Teacher Carol joined the Nursery Team in 2023. While new to our faculty, Carol has been a loving and involved parent at our school for many years. Carole Bennighof (She/Her) Kindergarten Teacher A dedicated teacher with more than twenty years of service, Carole is also an alumni parent. She shares her love for music with her class. Ivy Merritt (She/Her) Grades Teacher The magic of grace and acceptance are what Ivy sees and cherishes most in our community. She carries these attributes with her into the classroom. Sarah Langford (She/Her) Handwork Teacher A talented textile artist and musician, Sarah teaches Handwork to grades students and is our dedicated Grades Team Lead. Diana Rueda (She/Her) World Language Teacher Diana brings Spanish language and culture to our students in the most joy filled and engaging ways! She ushers Spanish language, art, and history throughout our school. Meredyth Moss (She/Her) Grades Teacher Aide Meredyth brings a spirit of creativity and warmth to our community. Her love for hands-on learning and guiding young minds shines through in her work with students each day. Lisa Moyer (She/Her) Nursery Teacher Lisa is a loving and dedicated Nursery Teacher, taking care and time to know each of the nursery children and their families. Sadhna Malkani (She/Her) Kindergarten Teacher Sadhna joined Alabama Waldorf School many moons ago. She is also a Board Member representing early childhood education. Arden McDonald (They/Them) Kindergarten Teacher As a young child, Arden attended Morning Garden at Alabama Waldorf School. They are gentle, kind, and their light shines throughout our school. Chez Knox (She/Her) Grades Teacher Childlike wonder fills Chez' classroom. Her thirst for knowledge and love for learning are abundant and visible in the experiences she shares. Melissa Downs (She/Her) Gardening Teacher Melissa gently cares for our students and our gardens as they grow. She brings her years of experience to her role of Faculty Chair. Emily Hoppe (She/Her) Music Teacher Bringing performing arts from her classes to our community is one of the many ways Emily cultivates joy and unity. Her students can be heard celebrating in song! Emily LaRussa (She/Her) Teacher Apprentice With a strong background in child development and Social Emotional Learning, Emily helps create calm, nurturing environments where children can thrive. Kristen McArthur (She/Her) Nursery Teacher We're excited to have Kristen back at Alabama Waldorf School. Her voice of experience both comforts and instills confidence in our youngest students. Andrea Holley (She/Her) Kindergarten Teacher Andrea's loving ways, unmistakable laughter, and firm guidance are known and loved by the faculty and families of her kindergarteners. Beth Blackwell (She/Her) Grades Teacher Beth brings her many years of working with children as well as a refreshing honesty and years of experience to our school and her class families. Jodie Bradley (She/Her) Grades Teacher With many years of teaching experience, Jodie serves as a College of Teachers member and AWSNA Delegate. Rita Meikson (She/Her) World Language Teacher As a world language teacher and alumni parent, Rita shares her love for Russian language and culture with our students and greater community. John Huckstein (He/Him) Preschool Teacher Aide John Huckstein, affectionately known as “Mr. Huck,” brings over 20 years of Waldorf teaching experience. His calm, cheerful presence brings warmth and wisdom to our youngest students. Administrative Staff Administrator & Director of Advancement Annie Damsky adamsky@alabamawaldorf.org Director of Admissions & Enrollment enrollment@alabamawaldorf.org Director of Operations Molly Arnold operations@alabamawaldorf.org Director of Business Kaitlin Caruso kcaruso@alabamawaldorf.org Director of Marketing & Communications Jeannie Leighton marketing@alabamawaldorf.org Director of Pedagogy Michelle Lucas mlucas@alabamawaldorf.org

< Back School Directory Request School Directories are available to currently enrolled families upon request. If you'd like to request a school directory, please submit a School Directory Request Form. Request School Directory Previous Next

< Back Carole Bennighof Kindergarten Teacher Ms. Carole has warmly contributed to Alabama Waldorf School for over 20 years. In those 20 years Ms. Carole has taught nearly every program, including Kindergarten. With a background in music and a profound love for teaching, she seamlessly weaves melody and learning into daily activities, nurturing a love of arts among the children. Her invaluable experience as both a teacher and an alumni parent shapes her nurturing approach. Ms. Carole continues to inspire her colleagues and her students alike.

< 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. Read Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement Previous Next

< Back Chez Knox Grades Teacher

Early Childhood Programs and Summer Camps for Elementary and Middle School Students are offered throughout the summer months. Summer Extended Care is also available for Early Childhood, Elementary, and Middle School students who are enrolled in summer programs. Summer Camp Application This Summer Camp Application form is for students (grades 1-8) not currently enrolled at Alabama Waldorf School. If your child is a former student, family member, or friend of a student and would like to learn more about our summer camps, please fill out the application below, and we will contact you with additional information. Grades Summer Camp Application Former Students and Family Members of Currently Enrolled Students To be completed by financially responsible parent or guardian. Your First Name Your Last Name Your Email Your Address Phone Your Relationship to the Child Please select all camps your child is interested in as each will require approval. * Required Movement Magic Camp (June 24-28) Kitchen Magic Camp (July 8-12) Fairy Camp (July 15-19) Making & Baking Camp (July 22-26) Extended Day Camp (Weekly 12:30-3:00 PM) I acknowledge and understand that the completion and submisson of this form indicates my interest only and does not register or enroll my child in Alabama Waldorf Summer Camps. Next

< Back Sarah Langford Handwork Teacher Ms. Langford has graced Alabama Waldorf School for over 15 years as both a dedicated teacher and a parent. Initially our music teacher, her journey led her to become the beloved Handwork teacher. Whether it's knitting, crocheting, or sewing, Ms. Langford's creative spirit and willingness to inspire shine brightly. She instills a sense of beauty and perseverance in her students, encouraging them to create with joy and dedication. Ms. Langford's impact on our community is both profound and inspiring.

Stay and play after morning Summer Camp! Extended Day Camp is for children attending summer camps and is from 12:30 to 3:00 pm. Activities will include water play, arts and crafts, and more! Extended Day Camp Cost $75 Grades Rising 1 - 8 Duration Weekly Begins June 1, 2026 Times 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm Register < Back About this Camp Stay and play after morning Summer Camp! Extended Day Camp is for children attending summer camps and is offered on a weekly basis from 12:30 to 3:00 pm. Activities will include water play, painting and crafts, table games, and playground time! Extended Day Camps will be led by Em Lundberg. To sign up for Extended Day Camp, please select the + Extended Day option when you register for your child's Summer Camp. Mondays: Painting, Arts & Crafts Tuesdays: Water Play (Bring an extra set of clothes!) Wednesdays: Storytelling and Table Games Fridays: Painting, Arts & Crafts 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 Camps!

Alabama Waldorf Middle School (Grades 7-8) offers interdisciplinary studies, focusing on hands-on experiences and independent thinking for pre-adolescents. Extended Care programs are also available for Middle School students. < Back Middle School Alabama Waldorf Middle School (Grades 7-8) offers interdisciplinary studies, focusing on hands-on experiences and independent thinking for pre-adolescents. Extended Care programs are also available for Middle School students. At Alabama Waldorf School, our middle school program is designed to meet the unique needs of students in grades 6-8. Our educational philosophy emphasizes the importance of the student-teacher relationship, ensuring it remains strong and meaningful throughout these crucial years. In our middle school, students continue to benefit from the continuity of having the same teacher, who moves up with the class each year. This creates a supportive and close-knit community, where the teacher acts as a trusted guide and mentor. This continuity allows teachers to deeply understand each student’s needs and tailor their education accordingly. Our middle school curriculum is rich and diverse, building on the foundation established in the earlier grades. Students engage in a comprehensive core curriculum while also exploring subjects such as Spanish, Russian, Handwork, Movement, Gardening, and Music. This varied curriculum ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, fostering both academic and personal growth. One distinctive feature of our program is the use of combined grades, also known as multiage classrooms. This approach contrasts with the traditional grade-by-grade system and is designed to meet the individual needs of each student. Multiage classrooms allow for developmentally appropriate learning, enabling students to progress at their own pace. This intentional instruction and guidance help foster a lifelong love of learning. In our middle school, the focus extends beyond academic achievement. We aim to cultivate a broader view of educational success, emphasizing holistic development. Our program is rooted in a strong pedagogical foundation that supports the overall well-being of each student, preparing them for future academic endeavors and personal growth. "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

Alabama Waldorf School's Extended Care program is available to all enrolled students. To meet the needs of our busy families, we provide a comfortable and wholesome environment for students from 7:30 am - 5:30 pm. < Back Extended Care Alabama Waldorf School's Extended Care program is available to all enrolled students. To meet the needs of our busy families, we provide a comfortable and wholesome environment for students from 7:30 am - 5:30 pm. Early Morning Extended Care begins at 7:30 am and transitions smoothly into the students' core program, which begins at 8:30 am. Afternoon Extended Care begins at the end of core classes and includes outside free play, weather permitting, and time for a healthy snack. Students then enjoy more outside play, reading, or inside games until their parents arrive at 5:30 pm. "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 School Year Calendar View significant dates and events for the 2025-2026 school year. View 2025-2026 School Calendar View 2025-2026 Opening & Closing Calendar View 2026-2027 Opening & Closing Calendar Previous Next

Alabama Waldorf School is committed to assembling a student body, faculty, and staff that reflects the economic, cultural, and ethnic diversity of the greater Birmingham area. Our tuition rates make our dynamic learning community accessible to a variety of families. Tuition We believe that a commitment to an Alabama Waldorf School education fosters a lifelong love of learning. We value the development of critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and artistic expression in an experiential learning environment. Students engaged in our unique curriculum become original thinkers, creative innovators, and compassionate citizens who will ultimately make meaningful contributions to their communities. Our school is committed to assembling a student body, faculty, and staff that reflects the economic, cultural, and ethnic diversity of the greater Birmingham area. We strive to maintain tuition rates and fees that help make our dynamic learning community accessible. Yearly Tuition Rates and Fees 2026 - 2027 Program Core Program Tuition Registration Fee School Support Fee* 3-Day Nursery $4,780 $170 $525 5-Day Nursery $7,244 $170 $755 3-Day Kindergarten $5,325 $170 $525 5-Day Kindergarten $8,077 $170 $755 Grades 1-8 $11,989 $170 $755 *School Support Fee is an annual payment per family, not per child. Early Childhood Monthly Extended Care Rates Program Times 5 Days per Week 4 Days per Week 3 Days per Week 2 Days per Week 1 Day per Week Early Morning Extended Care 7:30 AM - 8:15 AM $90 $72 $53 $36 $19 Early Afternoon Extended Care 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM $324 $262 $194 $129 $66 Late Afternoon Extended Care 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM $324 $262 $194 $129 $66 Grades 1-8 Monthly Extended Care Rates Program Times 5 Days per Week 4 Days per Week 3 Days per Week 2 Days per Week 1 Day per Week Early Morning Extended Care 7:30 AM-8:15 AM $90 $72 $53 $36 $19 Late Afternoon Extended Care 3:00 PM-5:30 PM $324 $262 $194 $129 $66 Financial Aid Alabama Waldorf School is committed to providing access to a Waldorf Education for all families in our community. Enrolled families interested in applying financial aid to any of our 5-day core curriculum programs must do so annually. Alabama Waldorf School uses Clarity to provide an objective and consistent method of determining a family’s ability to contribute to educational expenses. Clarity is a nationally recognized, third-party system that standardizes the financial review process and supports fair and equitable awards.

< Back John Huckstein Preschool Teacher Aide John Huckstein, or “Mr. Huck,” brings over 20 years of Waldorf teaching experience to our youngest students. His calm and cheerful presence is a source of comfort for both children and colleagues. With a gift for storytelling, he captivates children of all ages, guiding them through tales that unfold over the course of a month. As a floating preschool teacher, Mr. Huck is a valued support across our preschool classrooms.