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2005-2006
MONADNOCK WALDORF SCHOOL
PARENT HANDBOOK
NURSERY-KINDERGARTEN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
424 Old Walpole Road 98 S. Lincoln Street
Keene, NH 03431 Keene, NH 03431
603-357-8663 Phone: 603-357-4442
Fax: 603-357-2955
Email: info@monadnockwaldorfschool.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Waldorf School …………………………………………………………...2
Arrival and Dismissal .............................................................................………..3
1
Days and Hours .....................................................................................…..3
Office Hours …………………………………………………………...3
School Events …………………………………………………………...3
Absences and Illnesses ..............................................................................…….....4
Tardiness …………………………………………………………...4
Discipline ……………………………………………………….…..4
Health and Accident Insurance...............................................................…………….…..5
Immunization Policy ……………………………………………………….…..5
Lunch/Snacks ……………………………………………………….…..6
Dress Code ................................................................................….......6
Missing Clothing …………………………………………………………...8
Items Brought to School …………………………………………………………...8
Medications Brought to School……………………………………………………….....8
Media ……………………………………………………….…..8
Reading at Home …………………………………………………………...9
Music ………………………………………………………....10
Parking and Driving to School.........................................................……….……..……10
Snow Day Policy ……………………………..…………………………...11
Admissions .........................................................................................12
Registration Forms ………………………………………………………….12
Conditions of Enrollment ..............................................................................……...13
Administration ………………………………..………………………...13
Class Parents ………………………………………………………….14
Parent Council ..............................................................................……...15
Finances ………………………………………………………….15
Parent Notices ...............................................................................……..16
Recommended Resources ………………………………………………………….16
Parent Conferences/Student Reports/Academic Standards………...…………………..16
Association of Waldorf Schools or North America (AWSNA) ……………………….17
Bus Service ………………………………………………………….17
Field Trips ................................................................................…….18
Events ………………………………………………………….18
Participation in the School Community ………………………………………………19
General Procedure for Processing Concerns ..........................................................……19
Who to Contact in our School ............................................................................………19
THE WALDORF SCHOOL
Background
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Monadnock Waldorf School was founded in 1976 and is a full member of the
Association of Waldorf Schools of North America, which is affiliated with the world-wide
educational movement of independent Waldorf Schools. Waldorf education itself is based on the
detailed conception of human development coming from the work of the scientist and
philosopher Rudolf Steiner. The body of Steiner's life work is called "Anthroposophy," which
means "wisdom of the human being." His insights provide inspiration for the teachers and also
provide the pedagogical foundations for each and every Waldorf school. The orientation of this
philosophy is non-denominational Christian.
The faculty studies together and is committed to deepening its understanding of
Anthroposophy as a source of personal inner growth. It is not a subject taught in the school, but
is rather an important source of the richness that exists here. Parents interested in this aspect of
the school are encouraged to join together in study groups.
Festivals
Part of the unique character of any Waldorf school is the recognition and celebration of
seasonal festivals. Such observances were once an integral part of every community's life, and
they still reflect significant spiritual events in the rhythm of the year as well as in our own inner
lives. Each festival is imbued with a special quality and a particular mood. Through songs,
verses, stories, and simple observances the children share an experience of themselves as vitally
connected to a greater design.
Religion
Monadnock Waldorf School observes the cycle of the year through both traditional and
lesser known festivals, most importantly Michaelmas in the autumn and Advent in the winter.
We feel they embrace the qualities of hope, courage, joy, gratitude, love, and reverence which
are part of a natural religious attitude toward the world.
Other holidays are celebrated by the school through the preparations of individual classes
and in special assemblies. Your child's teacher will have more specific details to share.
Teachers welcome the opportunity to work with parents in bringing other festival events to their
classes.
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ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL
The opening of each school day is a special moment for the teachers and the
children at Monadnock Waldorf School. When morning exercises are interrupted by a
late child it affects the whole class. We feel it is essential for the well-being of the
children and their classes that they arrive on time. It is equally important that the
children be picked up promptly at 3:00 dismissal. Waiting to go home is hard on the
children, and teachers cannot provide adequate supervision after regular hours. If you
will be delayed, or your child will be absent, please call our office as soon as possible.
Arrival: Morning exercises begin promptly at 8:15 for all elementary classes. We again
request that parents plan to have children arrive 10 minutes early so they are ready to
begin their morning together with classmates. Children may arrive at elementary school
starting at 8, and at Kindergarten beginning at 8:15.
Dismissal: Just as there is a form to the beginning of the day, there is a form to the
closing of the school day. Dismissal for the preschool and kindergarten children is at 12
noon. Dismissal for the elementary school is at 3:00p.m. On Friday elementary classes
are dismissed at 2:00 p.m. On "early dismissal" days school ends at 1 p.m.
DAYS AND HOURS: NURSERY/KINDERGARTEN
Nursery/Kindergarten: Monday - Friday 8:15 - 12:00
Afternoon Program: Monday - Thursday 12:00 - 3:15
Friday 12:00 - 2:15
OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Thursday 8:00-3:30 Friday 8:00-2:30
Lisa Mahar Monday - Friday
Suzanne Ruse, Office Manager Monday - Friday
Jo-Anne Yardley, Bookkeeper Monday - Friday
SCHOOL EVENTS
Through the school year there will be assemblies and other scheduled events. We
have always urged parents to join us on these occasions when we can share the children's
accomplishments and their ongoing work. Please watch the Weekly Notice for
announcements of upcoming events.
CAMERAS AT SCHOOL EVENTS
Parents are requested to please refrain from photographing and video taping
special assemblies and class plays. Teachers will arrange for a photography session at
dress rehearsal or after the assembly.
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ABSENCES AND ILLNESSES
Absences: If your child is going to miss school, or is going to be late, it is very important
that you notify his or her teacher through the office before 8:00 a.m. unless previous
notification has been given. A child missing from class is a matter of serious concern and
is cause for immediate attention by staff and teachers. Please help us to avoid
unnecessary alarms by your attention to this request.
You may leave a message regarding absence 24 hours a day by calling 357-
4442, extension 10.
Please be aware that Saturday and Sunday events which are listed on the
elementary school calendar are counted in the children's attendance records.
Illness: Each day at Monadnock Waldorf School includes many different kinds of
activities for all students. A child who is ill, or even over-tired, simply cannot be present
in a strong enough way to benefit from all these opportunities. The faculty suggests that
you ask yourself whether or not your child will be able to participate fully in the school
day. If you're unsure it probably means he or she isn't well enough and needs to rest at
home. The school has no adequate facilities to care for a sick child. Children with
contagious or infectious illnesses cannot attend school unless given a doctor's written
permission.
TARDINESS
Main Lesson begins promptly at 8:15 a.m. It is important to arrive earlier so your
child has time to greet his or her teacher, put lunch and snack away, and prepare
himself/herself for the day.
DISCIPLINE
All children are expected to observe standards of behavior based on an attitude of
respect for their teachers, parents, fellow students, and their environment. Behavior that
interferes with the education process will not be tolerated.
Behavior that is considered to fall outside these standards may include, but is not
limited to:
rudeness or disrespect toward classmates, teachers, staff or parents;
physical aggression toward any individual or blatant mistreatment of property;
absence from classes or parts of classes without prior permission;
use of foul language;
leaving campus without permission.
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Kindergarten through Grade 5
Discipline will be handled in an age appropriate manner at the discretion of the
class teacher, with support from the faculty. The class teacher will keep in close contact
with parents of children with behavior problems. In the case of repeated behavior
difficulties, a child may lose the privilege to be at school for a period of time.
Grades 6 through 8
In cases of repeated rule breaking, especially when physical or emotional
aggression is involved, a program of strict monitoring of the situation will be set up. The
program will include a conference with parent, teacher, and administrator (and may
include the child) to set clear and consistent guidelines and goals for behavior
improvement. A time-frame to accomplish this improvement will be set. Dates will be
set for the teacher and parents to meet to review the situation. There will be frequent
communication between teacher and parents on the progress of the situation.
If all such measures fail, and improvement in behavior is not significant in the
specified time frame, the College of Teachers and the class teacher will meet to
determine whether the child's permanent dismissal from the school is necessary.
Physical and verbal aggression are grounds for immediate suspension. Should a
student show blatant disrespect by using caustic or foul language to those in charge or
fellow students, or by physically endangering others, s/he may be immediately
suspended. The class teacher, upon conferring with the administrator, will notify parents
of such a situation. A plan for addressing the situation will include consideration of the
severity of the behavior, the context of the incident, and the student's overall behavior.
The student will not be allowed to return to school until a meeting of class teacher, school
administrator, and parents takes place.
HEALTH AND ACCIDENT INSURANCE
Carrying health and accident insurance for students is the responsibility of
parents. Parents accept all medical expenses arising from injuries or other emergency
medical treatment.
IMMUNIZATION POLICY
We comply with the New Hampshire State Department of Education's Statute
200:38, which states that:
1. All children shall be immunized prior to school entrance according to the current
recommendations of the state public health agency.
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2. Any child may be exempted from the above immunization requirements if he
presents evidence from his physician that immunization will be detrimental to his
health.
3. If a parent or legal guardian objects to immunization because of religious beliefs,
he or she shall sign a notarized form stating that the child has not been immunized
for religious reasons. During outbreak of a communicable disease for which
immunization is required, children exempted in this way shall not attend the
school threatened by the communicable disease. We work closely with the
Department of Public Health in these instances.
LUNCH/SNACKS
Elementary students should bring their own lunches and beverages. Since
mealtimes are essentially social, we request that you leave lunch boxes bearing pictures
of super heroes or violent characters at home, as they often distract the children and
change the nature of their conversation and interaction with their peers. Elementary
children need to bring a mid-morning snack that is wholesome and nutritious without
refined sugar or additives.
In the kindergarten, the ritual of preparation and sharing of snack is an important
part of the morning. A snack fee is included in the overall tuition.
DRESS CODE
Students at MWS are expected to wear comfortable clothes and shoes appropriate
for a broad range of school activities, indoors and out, including physical education,
games, and eurythmy. Children’s clothing must protect them from the elements - the
cold, the rain, the mud, and the hot sun. By helping children to select appropriate
clothing we not only allow them to enjoy the activities available to them, but also lay the
foundations for a strong and healthy body to serve them throughout their lives. Current
trends often carry a variety of connotations, some of which do not belong in school, for
example, wool caps worn in warm weather.
Festival Dress
Certain occasions - festivals and assemblies, for instance - call for “best dress” to
reflect the mood of the event. We require that no blue jeans or T-shirts be worn for
dress-up occasions.
Shoes
Shoes are worn to protect the feet. Healthy feet develop best through their own
activity. This means that students need footwear with strong, flat heels and soles.
Backless clogs are not acceptable. Likewise, shoes need backs to keep the foot snugly in
place. Shoes also need to be tied. Platforms, high heels, and overly cushioned shoes put
a distance between the foot and the earth, hindering the foot’s ability to develop
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optimally and often the student’s ability to move freely. Therefore, flat shoes are
required. Shoes that tie are preferred. Winter boots should keep feet dry and warm.
Clothing Size
We recognize that clothing is a potent way to make a statement of identity.
Nevertheless, we ask that children wear clothing that is clean and fits well. Clothing that
is too tight restricts a child’s movement and encourages an unhealthy self-consciousness.
Oversized and “sagging” clothing inhibits movement and promotes an inappropriately
relaxed attitude. Oversized clothing, pants dragging on the floor, and dangling
accessories can also be a safety hazard during certain school activities.
Graphics
In our school we work to create simple, beautiful environments. A visually
restful environment leaves students free to concentrate on the task of learning. We
request your help in dressing your children in a way that supports this effort. Please
carefully consider the patterns, colors, and graphics on clothing with this in mind. A
beautiful batik flower on a T-shirt is appropriate; large, distracting graphics are not.
Graphics depicting drugs, alcohol, violence, the media, advertising, cartoons, or
caricatures are not suitable for school attire. Camouflage carries a variety of
connotations, none of which belong in our school.
Modesty
We ask you to carefully consider how to use clothing to protect your child’s
modesty and innocence through childhood and adolescence. Waldorf education is
characterized by efforts to provide the appropriate experience in accordance with the
students’ developmental level. By contrast, our culture tends toward precociousness in
many areas of childrearing. Clothing strongly reflects this. In particular, we feel that
spaghetti straps, miniskirts, low cut fronts, bare midriffs, and torn and ragged clothing are
not appropriate for school. Skirts, dresses, shorts and skorts should be no shorter than
mid-thigh.
Make-Up
We recognize that as children enter 7th and 8th grade they will want to experiment
with nail polish, make-up, and hair color. Again, we request moderation and discretion.
A small amount of tastefully applied make-up or nail polish or natural hair colors and
highlights are fine. However, if the amount or colors become distracting, we will ask that
this not be used at school. Permanent or temporary tattooing or drawing on oneself is not
acceptable.
The faculty reserves the right to make decisions as to the appropriateness of
clothing, shoes, or general appearance of a student which are thought to be interfering or
distracting to the educational process at MWS. We will keep a supply of extra, plain
clothing at school and ask students to change into these clothes, if necessary.
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MISSING CLOTHING
Unidentified clothing and other items left at school will be placed in a box and
kept outside the Woodworking room. If your child is missing clothing, please check
there. The school will donate unclaimed clothing to local charities. PLEASE LABEL ALL
CLOTHING WITH YOUR CHILD'S NAME!
ITEMS BROUGHT TO SCHOOL
Candy, toy weapons, radios, iPods, video games, cassette/CD players, and role
playing games (Star Trek cards, Magic cards, or any type of trading cards, for example)
should not be brought to school. Matches, lighters, jack knives, and other potentially
dangerous objects also have no place in school and will be confiscated.
Sexually explicit material has no place in our school and will be immediately
confiscated if found. If a parent becomes aware at any time that this type of material has
been present at school, we ask that the class teacher and the school administrator be
notified.
MEDICATIONS BROUGHT TO SCHOOL
If your child requires medication during the school day, the following steps must
be followed:
1. Medication must be handed from an adult to the class teacher to be dispensed by the
class teacher.
2. All medication must be in its original packaging and fully labeled.
3. Your physician must provide a note describing when and how the medication should
be administered and for how long.
This policy pertains to all medicines, including homeopathic, naturopathic,
anthroposophic, and allopathic, as well as asthma inhalers.
MEDIA
To support the work we do at the Waldorf School, we ask that parents eliminate
media use during the week and strongly monitor or eliminate its use over the weekend. It
is especially crucial for the children in grades K-5 to be free from the influences of the
media.
What children bring to school after a weekend of unsupervised video watching or
unsupervised radio listening affects the class and its work. Based on direct observation
of the children, our teachers have serious concerns about excessive exposure to the
media. We feel the medium itself, as much as programming content, undermines healthy
child development. A reliance on ready made pictures reduces the child's ability to
visualize both the written and the spoken word. Students who are accustomed to
passively receiving have difficulty making the inner effort necessary to sustain an
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imaginative train of thought. There is a growing body of research supporting this
position.
Essential to the Waldorf approach to education is the daily activity by students of
reviewing the previous day's work. As the children sleep, the stories and experiences of
the day are transformed and become their own. This process sparks the individual
development of thinking. When a child is exposed to strong, fixed impressions, such as
the media presents, this overnight process of taking in is compromised to a point where
we know it cannot work at all as it is intended.
In the event that a child's media experiences are affecting his or her ability to
benefit from the curriculum and thereby causing disruption to the daily life of the class,
the teacher will request a meeting with the parents of the student. A child whose media
experiences are disruptive to the class, classroom activities, or educational process is of
serious concern to the faculty and may lead to a request to withdraw a student.
READING AT HOME
One of the best ways to support your child’s Waldorf education is through
reading. Ideally, a child who is read to from the earliest age develops skill for and a love
of reading that continues throughout life. Many parents have a routine of daily reading
aloud, that often continues through eighth grade and beyond. Some parents even have to
limit their children’s reading to themselves to allow for a reasonable balance of activities.
A child with a strong home reading program has little time for, or (often) interest in
watching television and other audio/visual media.
Selecting books for your child requires some care. Some of the modern children’s
books are like video-in-print: extreme, violent, scary, etc. Such books are easily
avoided, as there are hundreds of excellent children’s books.
To begin selecting books to read at home, first check with your child’s class
teacher. The teacher will be planning to use certain books during the school year, and
these are best to avoid so that your child hears them for the first time at school. Your
teacher may also have a short list of books for the students to pick from when they begin
selecting books from the MWS and public libraries.
The parents’ section of the MWS library also has lists of recommended books,
sorted by grade level. Most of these books are available at a local library. Even if you
don’t live in Keene, your family can check out books from both Keene Public Library
and Keene State college. (KSC has a great collection of children’s books, particularly the
“good old” ones.) On request, KPL provides a free library card to every student who
goes to school in Keene; and your KPL card entitles you to six books at a time from
KSC. See the MWS Main Office for a form letter to take to KPL. See the MWS Library
for booklists.
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MUSIC
Music is an integral component of our educational program. In addition to
preparing students for a lifetime of creating and enjoying music, the study of music helps
students unfold their capacities for thinking, feeling, and willing in a unique and powerful
way. The music program we offer in the school depends on support from the students’
families to work most effectively.
Families purchase diatonic wooden flutes at the beginning of third grade.
Beginning with the class of 2007, we expect all students to have access to a musical
instrument starting in fourth grade and to take private instrumental lessons from fifth
grade through eighth. In fourth grade, all students should rent or otherwise obtain a
violin for the fourth grade violin class. Private lessons are not expected at this time. In
fifth grade, students should take private lessons on violin, cello, flute, or clarinet to
supplement the fifth grade ensemble. Starting in sixth grade, students may take lessons
on any standard orchestra instrument (such as violin, viola, cello, flute, oboe, clarinet,
saxophone, trumpet, French horn, or trombone). Instruments such as recorder, lyre,
guitar, percussion, piano, and drums are not part of the orchestra program. We also ask
parents’ support in helping students to maintain a regular practice schedule, keep track of
their music, and bring their instruments to school.
PARKING AND DRIVING TO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
We have an overall traffic plan for the school based on city requirements. It is
important that we adhere to the plan for reasons of safety, efficiency, and good
neighborhood relations. Carpooling is essential.
1) Morning drop-off is in front of the Wilber Street entrance. Please pull forward so
we can accommodate two cars in the drop-off area. When leaving, continue up
Wilber Street to Water Street. DO NOT MAKE U-TURNS BACK TO SOUTH
LINCOLN STREET.
2) There is no parking immediately alongside the building or in front of the
Wilber Street entrance. These are fire lanes and could be needed at any time in
an emergency.
3) The first four parking spots are open for visitor and handicapped parking. All
other parking spots must be available from 9:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. daily, for
classes coming outside for recess, games class and dismissal
4) Our school was built originally as a neighborhood school with no provision for
adequate parking. We ask that you bear this in mind. When visiting during
school hours please park on the south side of Church Street or the east side of
Valley Street and Probate Street if the two visitor spots are taken and walk the
short distance to the school. Do not park on Hardy Court.
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When parking on neighborhood streets, please remember the following city
ordinances:
No parking within 30 feet of any intersection unless otherwise posted.
Park in such a way that all driveways can be safely accessed.
Do not park on sidewalk or facing oncoming traffic.
Our parking plan states that MWS families will limit our parking to one side
(as designated in #3, above) of neighborhood streets at all times to ensure the
safe passage of school buses and emergency vehicles.
5) Afternoon pick-up at 3:00 p.m. will follow this pattern: Pull into parking area and
drive along back of building. The teacher on duty will direct traffic. Please help
to keep traffic moving by observing the no parking areas: in front of the school's
main entrance (Wilber Street), immediately alongside the school building (fire
lane), and in the rear of the parking lot (leaving room for the turn-around).
Cars are to drive back to the turn-around (basketball court) area, where children
will be directed to their carpools. Upon entering the lot, cars should drive
alongside the school building for pick-up, then circle around to the left,
continuing out the exit lane.
During Monday and Wednesday 1:00 dismissal for Grades One and Two,
please park on Church Street or Wilber Street and walk on to school
grounds to pick up your child.
SNOW DAY POLICY
Monadnock Waldorf School follows the Keene School District (SAU #29) in
regard to snow days. However, because of the widespread area covered by our students'
and teachers' homes, we must reserve the right to cancel school at our discretion. School
cancellations will be announced on local radio stations WKBK (12.90 on the AM/ radio),
WZBK (12.20 on the AM/radio), WOQL (97.7 FM), WINQ (98.7 FM), WKNE (103.7
FM) in Keene, WNHI and WJYY in Peterborough, and WKVT in Brattleboro, WYRY
(104.9 FM) in Brattleboro by 6:30 a.m. There will also be a pre-recorded message placed
on the school phone, on Ext. 12.
School will not be canceled for inclement weather developing during the school
day. However, parents should feel free to pick their children up before dismissal if they
are concerned about conditions.
In the event of a delayed opening, there will be no morning kindergarten/nursery
programs.
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ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ADMISSIONS
New Students
Enrollment procedures are as follows:
1) For each child, complete an Application for Admission and submit to the school
secretary with a non-refundable application fee of $50.
2) If your child is transferring from another school, sign a Consent to Release
Educational Records form.
3) After the Application for Admission, student records, and application fee are
received, interviews with the Admissions Director and the Class Teacher will be
arranged for parents and child(ren). Lisa Mahar is the Admissions Director for the
Elementary School and for the Nursery-Kindergarten.
4) When acceptance has been determined, the family is contacted. A deposit of
$400 (elementary or junior high) and/or $300 (kindergarten) is made toward the
year's tuition. (This is due 15 days after acceptance.)
5) A Payment Plan is chosen for the year's tuition, after which a Tuition Agreement
is drawn up and signed. (For families who are unable to pay the full tuition fee, a
scholarship may be applied for, pending availability of funds.)
6) Confirmation of enrollment takes place upon signature of the tuition contract and
completion of the above steps. Final acceptance is granted following a two-
month trial period in Nursery/Kindergarten and a one-month trial period of
attendance in the elementary school.
Continuing Students
A continuing application package consisting of an enrollment agreement,
continuing application, and deposit, is due for the coming year on or around March 1.
REGISTRATION FORMS
Several forms must be completed when you register your child at Monadnock
Waldorf School. Here is a list of the forms you should know about.
Scholarship Application Form: If you are applying for a scholarship, these forms need
to be completed and returned to the office, usually by March 1st , to be eligible for the
next school year. Applications must include all requested information in order to be
considered for scholarship award.
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Health Form: All new students should have a health form completed by their doctor and
returned to the office no later than September 15. For returning students, new health
forms are required in Grades One and Grade Six. A form will be sent to you when it is
time for you to have a new one filled out.
Tuition Agreement: You must have a Tuition Agreement form filled out and signed by
you and Monadnock Waldorf School by the beginning of the school year. This is a
legally binding contract and is required before a child enters school. There are no
exceptions to this policy.
Emergency Card: This is also due the first week of school. It is important because it
gives the office up-to-date information about your child and how to reach you in case of
an emergency. Please keep the office staff informed of any changes during the year.
CONDITIONS OF ENROLLMENT
Each new student who is accepted will undergo a one-month period of evaluation.
During this time the parents will have the opportunity to become familiar with the
program, and the teacher will be able to observe the student's needs and abilities. At the
end of one month, either the parents or teacher may terminate the enrollment contract. If
this becomes necessary, tuition payment will be based on a pro-rated amount determined
by time spent in the program.
Children of any race, sex, creed and social or economic status will be given an
equal educational experience.
ADMINISTRATION
Monadnock Waldorf School is an independent school which exists through the
special efforts of a large and increasingly diverse community of people. Coordinating
and directing these efforts is the work of three groups in the school--the College of
Teachers, the Board of Trustees, and the Faculty. They perform their tasks with the help
of standing committees and the administrative staff of the school. These groups strive to
maintain open and clear channels of communication with parents.
The College and Board recognize that Monadnock Waldorf School is in a new
phase of its development. After 28 years we have developed clear and flexible structures
that serve school life. Now we need to understand and plan for the kind of leadership and
administrative structures that will best support our students and their families in the
future.
We have proposed a new administrative structure that will:
support the care of the buildings and grounds
streamline oversight of our financial life
provide needed clerical support to teachers and staff
integrate our outreach and fundraising and staff
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This new structure includes the following staff positions:
lead administrator
facilities coordinator
bookkeeper
development coordinator
administrative support
Lisa Mahar will serve as the lead administrator, Jo-Anne Yardley as bookkeeper,
Jennifer Kiernan development coordinator and Jeff Spiegler as facilities coordinator.
College of Teachers: This is a group made up of experienced teachers who have made a
special commitment both to the philosophy of Waldorf education and to Monadnock
Waldorf School. It is the central administrative body of the school. Major decisions in
the life of the school are referred to the College. The College delegates to various groups
and individuals the tasks of administering the school. All questions involving personnel,
educational programs, and school policy are the responsibility of the College. The
Chairmanship of the College rotates on a 2- to 3-year basis. The College of Teachers
meets weekly.
Board of Trustees: This is a group consisting of parents, faculty, and friends of the
school. It carries the legal and financial responsibility for the school as defined in the by-
laws of Monadnock Waldorf School. Fund-raising, development, and budget are primary
responsibilities of the Board. By its attention to these areas it serves to assure the long
term health of the school. Board members are elected for a term of three years. The
Board meets the third Wednesday of each month at 6:45 p.m. The Board's agenda is
published one week before the upcoming meeting. Anyone having an issue or discussion
they would like the Board to take up should contact a member of the Executive
Committee. Meetings are open to anyone wishing to attend.
The Faculty: Teachers meet as a group weekly to discuss and decide on specific issues
that pertain to the ongoing educational work of the school. The Faculty meetings are also
the time for the faculty members to deepen their understanding of the needs of individual
children, to further study the philosophy and goals of Waldorf Education, and to work
together in support of each other in their growth as teachers.
Executive Committee: This is the central group for moving information through
appropriate channels. Each group of the school administration is represented: College of
Teachers, Board of Trustees, and Administrators. This group meets weekly.
CLASS PARENTS
A parent from each class will be asked by the class teacher to help in organizing
class trips, plays, and social activities throughout the school year. These Class Parents
will notify other parents of their class about special events and also act as liaisons
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between busy teachers and busy parents. A full list of Class Parents will be published
after the start of the school year.
PARENT COUNCIL
Each class has at least one representative on the Parent Council. The Parent
Council meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are open to
all parents.
The mission of the Parent Council encompasses two main goals: The first goal is
to assist the parents of the school in expressing their thoughts, ideas and concerns to the
greater school community, including the Board of Trustees, College of Teachers and
Administration. By facilitating clear and consistent communication between parents and
the governing bodies of the school, the Parent Council will help to serve the mission of
MWS by addressing the unique needs of our students. The second goal is to serve MWS
by supporting and facilitating school activities, celebrations and special events in an
effort to foster a strong sense of school community. As MWS grows and changes over
time, the Parent Council will embrace the new challenges and act as a guiding force to
support the physical and cultural integrity of our school.
The Parent Council commits to training all members anew each year, to enable
Parent Council representatives to provide clear and consistent information to the greater
school community.
FINANCES
Monadnock Waldorf School relies on parents and friends for its fiscal health.
Teacher salaries and other operating expenses are primarily covered by the fees we
charge. However, the actual per-child cost of an MWS education is significantly higher
than the tuition charged. Two other sources of income have been established to help
meet the school's needs. First, we sponsor fundraising events through the year such as
our Crafts Fair. Alongside these events we have an Annual Giving Campaign which we
see as a significant "in-reach" program for the school. Through Annual Giving we ask all
members of the school family to pledge financial support to the school out of their own
choice and apart from tuition It is an opportunity for each of us (and our extended
families) to appreciate MWS for its contribution to the life of the community. An annual
report is prepared each fall and is shared with all families.
Scholarship
As a school we are committed to offering a well-rounded education. A diverse
student body is a necessary part of the school's program. To help create that diversity and
to make MWS a more vital institution, we have established a scholarship program to
address some part of the need for financial assistance. The Scholarship Program is
administered by a committee made up of friends of the school.
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Determining scholarship awards is a balancing of individual financial needs and
availability of funds. The Committee asks for information solely to determine need
according to established policies. Recipients of financial aid are expected to have current
accounts clear before scholarship money is distributed. Applications are due in late
March for the following school year. New families may apply at anytime. For
information contact Lisa Mahar at the Elementary School (357-4442).
PARENT NOTICES
On Tuesdays, your child will take home the Weekly Notice. Don't miss it! It's the
place to look for calendar reminders, notices, parent-to-parent communications, and
more. A clipboard under the window in the Main Office at the Elementary School is
waiting for your contribution. You may also fax (603-357-2955) or email
(info@monadnockwaldorfschool.org) your articles. Copy deadline is 12 noon on
Friday. The Weekly Notice is free to parents, with subscriptions available to friends of
the school.
RECOMMENDED RESOURCES
The following are recommended as good introductory books on Waldorf
education:
Teaching as a Lively Art, Marjorie Spock
The Education of the Child, Rudolf Steiner
Waldorf Education, M.C. Richards
The Experience of Knowledge, John Gardner
Rudolf Steiner Education, Francis Edmunds
The Way of a Child, A.C. Harwood
You are Your Child's First Teacher, Rahima Baldwin
The Child From Two to Four, Udo de Haes
School as a Journey, Torin Finser
PARENT CONFERENCES/STUDENT REPORTS/ACADEMIC STANDARDS
Each class in our school is considered a community in which each member has
strengths and talents to share with all. Elementary school children are not compared or
encouraged to compete with one another. High individual standards will be expected and
demonstrated in many areas. Evaluation of a child's progress will be shared with parents
through meetings with the teacher and through written reports.
Parents of nursery and kindergarten children will receive a year-end report in
June, and there will be at least one parent-teacher conference during the year. For
grades 1 through 6, parents will receive course descriptions in September and a year-end
report in June. A fall and mid-winter conference will also be scheduled. For grade
seven and eight, reports will include individual progress notes in various subject areas.
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In February class teachers meet with parents for evaluative conferences. Descriptive child
reports are written based on these conferences and on teacher observations.
Children in the 3rd grade will be checked during the year to determine reading
level and math skills. Children of grades 5, 7, and/or 8 will be given an assessment and
the results will be shared with the parents. Results of tests of 3rd and 5th grade students
are for assessment purposes only.
ASSOCIATION OF WALDORF SCHOOLS (AWSNA)
The Association of Waldorf Schools of North America evolved out of meetings
of the Waldorf schools and teacher training centers in the decade between 1960 and
1970. The purpose of the Association is to strengthen and nurture the impulse of Waldorf
education so that it manifests widely in the world.
Activities of the Association
* To develop and disseminate resources for parents, teachers, administrators, and
trustees. These resources include Renewal (a bi-annual journal), the Science Newsletter,
science kits, and a wide array of books and pamphlets.
* To provide advice to parents, teachers, administrators, schools, institutes, and school
boards.
* To accredit schools & institutes through a process that includes a self-study and visits
by an accreditation team.
* To promote professional and community development of teachers, administrators,
parent organizations, and trustees trough conferences & workshops.
* To advocate for independence in education and the preservation of childhood.
Participate in educational and political forums.
* To promote and support teacher preparation and training through fundraising for
teacher training institutes and teacher education loans.
*Research -- Support pedagogical and organizational research.
Our Association is led by an Executive Team, Leadership Council with
representatives from 8 regions across the continent, and by the Board of Trustees.
Members of the Executive team are: Francis Kane, Leader of Administration, Kathy
Brunette, Leader of Association Services and Patrice Maynard, Leader of Outreach and
Development. All questions can be addressed to the Association office, or through the
delegates from our school, Lisa Mahar and Peter Schoen. We are members in the North
East Region and our Northeast Leadership Council Representative is Michelle Starr from
Lake Champlain Waldorf School.
BUS SERVICE
Bus service is currently provided on the following schedule:
BUS SCHEDULE
Morning Pick-up Afternoon Drop-off
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7:20 Monadnock Rte. 202 Plaza/Peterborough 3:05 Leave MWS
7:30 Carr’s Store 3:25 Yankee Publishing
7:35 Yankee Publishing 3:30 Carr’s Store
8:00 Arrive MWS 3:40 Mon. Plaza/Peterborough
Families may contract for regular bus service through Jo-Anne Yardley in the
Business Office. Families wishing to use the bus service for an occasional ride for their
child should do the following:
1. Contact the Main Office in advance to find out if a seat is available;
2. Give payment ($6.00 per ride) to Jo-Anne Yardley.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are an important part of each class's educational program. To make
them possible takes cooperation on the part of parents and teachers. Over the years we
have developed a few simple guidelines to make them as safe and as enjoyable as
possible, whether it involves a day trip to Camp Glen Brook or an extended trip to the
Grand Canyon.
1. State law (RSA 508:17) requires that school volunteers, including drivers, be
'approved' by the school to act on behalf of the school. A form, signed by an
officer of the school and the volunteer, must be on file in order to provide
immunity from liability. Drivers must have a clean driving record and adequate
insurance. (Forms will be sent home early in the school year.)
2. State law also requires that all children under age 18 wear seat belts.
Nursery/Kindergarten students must use car seats where appropriate. We extend
this requirement to all students while on any school-sponsored trips. Additionally
no student in grade four or below may ride in the front seat of a car with a
passenger side airbag. Fifth and sixth grade students may only ride in the front
seat with a parent’s permission.
3. The effects of alcoholic beverages are of serious concern to many individuals and
families. We feel that their use by a chaperone or any adult on any school
sponsored trip is, therefore, inappropriate and to be avoided.
4. All school rules for appropriate behavior are in effect during field trips.
Drivers/chaperones must be fully prepared to support and enforce school rules.
EVENTS
We recognize that events outside of the school day, such as the Crafts Fair and
school plays are exciting and special, yet they still demand the same guidelines for
behavior that we would expect at school, particularly concerning personal safety and
respect for the property of others. At events outside of the school day, parents are fully
responsible for the care and supervision of their children.
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At events such as the Crafts Fair, children also must be guided clearly by the
sensible behavioral expectations of their parents. Our children behaving with considera-
tion, respect, and courtesy toward others are a strong recommendation of our school as a
whole, and a true reflection of the core values we share as a school community.
PARTICIPATION IN THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY
The key to your child's educational well being lies in the close cooperation of
teachers and parents. We have often observed a direct correlation between parents'
positive involvement in the ideals and activities of the school and the child's positive
experience in class.
If you find that you have questions or concerns regarding your child's life at
school, please discuss them with your class teacher. If this is not possible, make an
appointment to meet with the school administrator.
GENERAL PROCEDURE FOR PROCESSING CONCERNS
From time to time you may have a concern that requires special attention. We are
committed to working with each family for the long-term benefit of each student.
Assistance may be sought at any time with someone outside the process who helps to
mediate and who is mutually agreed upon. Board and College will be informed as
needed.
1. Classroom concerns should always be addressed first with the class teacher.
2. Next a conversation among class teacher, parent, school administrator, and/or
Pedagogical Committee, as necessary. Notes are taken during this meeting:
issue is explored
mutual goals are set
time line is agreed upon
check-in meeting date is established.
Notes are shared with appropriate body(ies).
3. Next a check-in meeting with adjustments and an assessment of progress toward
goals with notes.
4. Next, if progress is not being made in the opinion of either party by the end of the
third meeting, a plan is then made for closing the process.
WHO TO CONTACT IN OUR SCHOOL
At Monadnock Waldorf School we strive to be open and responsive in all
dealings with community members. We hope that our educational ideal of respect and
deep regard for each individual child is reflected in the way that we approach issues
brought by parents or others. We are committed to bettering the school as an
organization, and both the Faculty and Board welcome your interest and your questions
about Monadnock Waldorf School.
