You may notice that the Update looks a bit different this week. With the help of our very capable Systems Specialist Jordan Tanaka, we have a new template and will be fine-tuning over the next several issues. Let us know what you think!
This week I had a great time visiting with the Fourth Grade. I spent a couple of mornings observing in the class and it was a precious reminder of how what we do here is so very special, and so very different. The class has been studying Norse Mythology, and their memory and vocabulary work is being done through the study of ancient runes! There are so many ways that this type of activity solidly meets the Fourth Grader ... can't you just remember how much you enjoyed code-breaking, riddles, and "Pig Latin" at that age? Being able to teach a curriculum so developmentally attuned is a real joy, as was evident with all the fun Ms. Roehl was having with her class.
At a certain point when they had finished with their vocabulary assignment writing exercise, Ms. Roehl allowed them a few minutes for 'under the desk' time (see below). I was a little confused at what they were doing, but later when I asked about it, their very wise teacher told me: "It's a way for them to see things from a different perspective." Boom! Such a simple activity. Such a profound lesson built in - especially for children who are developmentally emerging from the wholeness of early childhood and beginning to take up a position at the periphery in terms of how they are able to see and navigate their worlds.This is the beauty of Waldorf: really understanding the whole child.
Tonight the Fabulous Fourth Grade will debut their instrumental skills at our winter concert. It begins at 6:30 p.m., although our performers are asked to arrive early for tuning. I hope that even if you don't have a child who will be presenting tonight, you will stop by to see this fabulous class - and the four others - who will be sharing their hard work and talent with us.
Blessings on your weekend.
In spirited community,
Nicole Deutsch
Director of Community Development
|
|
Our winter concert, showcasing our music program in grades 4-8, is tonight! The 6:30 p.m. event, held at Cold Springs Church, features instrumental music performances, as well as by the recorder ensemble and upper grades choir. Please join us for a great evening!
|
|
"Art Unveiled" tickets now on sale!!!
|
|
Lending a Hand was Never so Much Fun!
|
|
Volunteer Memories from Last Year's Big Event!
|
|
Adam Beasley welcoming in the guests!
|
Former CSWS parent Nicole Berry overseeing the popular "wine toss."
|
|
Helpful hostess Catelyn Phillips
|
|
Sacramento Waldorf School will host a special screening of a new documentary that explores anxiety, its causes and effects, and what parents and educators can do about it. This 55-minute film shows candid interviews with real teens about anxiety and tools that help and provide hope. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health challenge in the U.S. While anxiety disorders are highly treatable, only one-third of those suffering receive treatment. This film is appropriate for students from Fifth Grade and up and features World Champion Swimmer Michael Phelps!
When and Where:
Sunday, January 27, 2019, 2-3:30 p.m. - SWS's San Juan Hall
Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 7-8:30 p.m. - SWS's Linden Hall
|
|
SpotLight on ... Laura Hauge
|
|
In this edition of SpotLight, we catch up with longtime CSWS parent Laura Hauge, currently the co-chair of our Parent Guild, and a member of our Board of Trustees. She is an alumni parent to Erynn, Class of 2017. Her son Evan is in 7th grade and daughter Ava is in 4th.
What is your background?
I am a journalist by training and fell into teaching writing workshops for homeschoolers. I was also trained in the Lindamood-Bell reading program by Kim Barney, so I do reading, spelling and comprehension tutoring, as well. I was fortunate to observe Kim with CSWS students, and then have her observe me as I took on a few students here about 16 years ago.
What drew you to Waldorf Ed?
At that time I started tutoring with Kim, I soaked in the nature of the school and its pedagogy. I had started doing research on learning methods to understand my students better and because I had just had my first child. I noticed from my own students, and studies were proving, that developmentally appropriate learning (not forcing ABCs on students too soon) and letting kids play were essential to becoming well rounded adults who actually enjoyed learning for their whole lives. I also loved its holistic approach and that academics were incorporating with social teaching, art, music, and even how to be an upright citizen in the world.
What do you most enjoy about being a part of CSWS?
I love that my children feel known and loved when they go to school. I also enjoy the sense of community, a basic need that’s missing in our world today.
What is the school’s biggest strength? Its biggest challenge?
CSWS biggest strength is the qualified and caring faculty and staff. Additionally, as someone who has been on this campus for so long, I see a renewed sense of collaboration between faulty and parents and the board that is so refreshing and exciting. I know we have the kids’ best interests at heart, even if we have different ideas of how to complete that mission. The biggest challenge would be communication, which is so vital when we have a consensus process. Our community has all the best and worst features of a family. It’s inclusive, but also challenging to make sure everyone’s voice is heard, especially when differences arise. It’s even more difficult when one of the most important parts of our lives, our children, is thrown into that mix and we all feel like we have a lot at stake.
How has the school changed during your many years here?
CSWS has changed so much, but luckily, its true heart has not. I’m told it used to be this pioneering group of parents and teacher who did EVERYTHING. Over the years that I have been there, six of which included being on the board previously, the school has been finding its legs from a business and governance stand point for sure. There’s been many bumps along the way, and I can also say that I think we’re moving in a healthy direction. While I still see a lot of burn out, from both staff and parents, I notice that people are starting to recognize this and feel more comfortable delegating to others, which requires trust and can be hard to do sometimes.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time I like to play racquetball with my husband and board games with my kids and friends. I’m a HUGE table top gaming nerd. I also enjoy listening to music, going to concerts, reading and meditating.
What is something about you people might be surprised to learn?
There are many things I think people would be surprised to know about me. One is I got to be like my favorite movie character, Indiana Jones, and found skeletons on an archaeology dig in Israel. And another is I love rap music.
Thank you, Laura!!
|
|
Winter Newsletter Coming in February - Alumni Submissions Welcome!
|
|
Our quarterly newsletter installment will publish next weekend. We are looking for news and submissions about our wonderful alumni. Photos, college admission updates, notable life events are all welcomed. Please send submissions to
development@cedarspringswaldorf.org
|
|
As part of the 5th Grade's Ancient Civilizations block, the class made clay pendants inscribed with their hieroglyphic names
|
|
|
|
Ms. Lisa always has a smile to share!
|
|
|
|
The 4th Grade digs in to Friday pizza!
|
|
CSWS Positions Available
Our school is much in need of an early childhood extended care assistant. We are seeking a warm, responsible individual to help supervise this program. Experience with young children and knowledge of Waldorf pedagogy is preferred, but not required. The extended care position hours are Monday through Friday, 12 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. To meet state licensing requirements, applicants must have 12 ECE units, and be willing to comply with current CPR and First Aid training, clear a Livescan background check, a TB test, and a health screening and comply with current California vaccination requirements. Please send inquiries to: Veronica Gunasekara at
veronicalavergne@gmail.com
The College of Teachers is seeking individuals who can act as substitute teachers. With our pedagogical chair position now vacant, we no longer have a go-to for when our teachers are ill or need to be away for the day for personal or family needs. With the cold and flu season approaching, the College would like to begin compiling a list of people, especially those with a teaching credential or experience working with children, who can support our faculty in this way. Please contact Amy Roehl at
classof2023@cedarspringswaldorf.org
if you would be able to help with this.
|
|
Jan. 21 MLK Jr. Holiday - No School
Jan. 25 Winter Concert , 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Feb. 1 Parent Guild Meeting, 1:35 p.m.
Feb. 7 Board of Trustees Meeting, 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 15 All-school Assembly, 12:30 p.m.
Feb. 18-22 February Conference Week, No School
Feb. 25 School Resumes
Mar 1 Parent Guild Meeting, 1:35 p.m.
|
|
Inspiring our students to reach their highest potential as free-thinking, creative human beings who have a life-long love of learning, Cedar Springs offers Waldorf education to families and their children, infants through Eighth grade
. - CSWS Mission Statement
|
|
Cedar Springs Waldorf School | 6029 Gold Meadows Rd. Placerville, CA 95667
530-642-9903 | www.cedarspringswaldorf.org
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
