Our Purpose
Fostering Waldorf Education in North America
Our Story
The Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA) was established in 1968. It started as a small organization of roughly a dozen schools established to inspire and support collaboration and leverage member collaboration, for the purpose of strengthening each member as well as the vision and mission of the association.
The association became an organization of support and guidance for Waldorf schools and Waldorf teacher training institutes across North America. It provided accreditation services for schools, emphasizing that the principles of Waldorf education are living in schools. This accreditation process helps to maintain the integrity and quality of Waldorf schools, giving parents and students confidence in their choice of education.
The association's role went beyond accreditation, however. It became a hub of knowledge and resources, offering professional development opportunities for teachers and organizing conferences and events that brought people together for Waldorf education. The association became an organization for the exchange of ideas and best practices, fostering collaboration and innovation in Waldorf education.
The association also took on a broader role, advocating for Waldorf education at the national level. It raised awareness about the benefits of the Waldorf approach, highlighting the ability to cultivate well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also socially and emotionally balanced.
Today, AWSNA stands as evidence of the power of a shared vision and collective effort for education. The association plays a pivotal role in the growth and development of Waldorf education in North America, ensuring that this unique approach continues to thrive and make a difference in the lives of countless children.
The story of AWSNA is a story of inspiration, innovation, and a belief in the transformative power of education. It is a story that continues to unfold, as more and more people discover the benefits of Waldorf education.
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Early Childhood Education
I am the world
Grades Education
I love the world
High School Education
I know the world
AWSNA
Principles
For
Waldorf
Schools
1. The image of the human being as a spiritual being informs every aspect of the school.
2. Waldorf schools foster social renewal by cultivating human capacities in service to the individual and society.
3. Anthroposophical understanding of child development guides the educational program.
4. Waldorf schools support freedom in teaching within the context of the school's shared agreements.
5. The conscious development of human relationships fosters individual and community health.
6. Spiritual development in support of professional growth is an ongoing activity for the faculty, staff, and board.
7. Collaboration and shared responsibility provide the foundations of school leadership and governance.
8. Waldorf schools honor and embrace human diversity and dignity.
Equity and Racial Justice
Advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is one of the compelling forces behind the AWSNA strategic priorities. These priorities are central to our work and aim to bring us closer to the world that we want for our youth.