innovating
tradition
since 1919
Waldorf education began over a century ago and now spans a global network of more than 1,000 schools. Chicago Waldorf School has carried that work forward since 1974, offering a Pre-K through 12th grade education that is developmentally grounded and academically rigorous. The result is graduates who think critically, approach challenges creatively, and bring the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate a changing world.
OUR APPROACH
THE METHOD
BEHIND THE MODEL
At Chicago Waldorf School, learning is grounded in firsthand experience.
Our approach is rooted in Waldorf education, which has been innovating tradition since 1919, applying time-tested practices to develop the capacities today’s world demands: work ethic, a sense of wonder, and the wisdom of critical thinking. In practice, this can look like a fraction lesson beginning with a chalk drawing, a first grader learning to knit, and an intentionally screen-free classroom. Students engage with each subject directly and demonstrate mastery through applied work.
Research links embodied and physically active learning with improved learning performance, working memory, and other executive functions that support learning. These experiences help build the foundational skills students need for long-term academic success.
a roadmap rooted in
your child’s development
Our curriculum evolves with each student’s developmental stage, offering the right balance of academic rigor, curiosity, creativity, and meaningful challenge at every level.
EXPLORE HOW LEARNING UNFOLDS FROM ONE STAGE TO THE NEXT BELOW.
ask about our
family individualized Tuition
Tuition works on a variable model: every family may apply annually for a Family Individualized Tuition (FIT) amount, built to welcome an ever-wider array of families from across the city and the world.
CWS BY THE NUMBERS
come see us in action!
Check out what’s happening next at our school and in our community below.
