Curriculum

"One of the strengths of the Waldorf curriculum is its balance and depth: the emphasis on the arts... the rich use of the spoken word through poetry and storytelling... Above all, the way the lessons integrate traditional subject matter is, to my knowledge, unparalleled." - Ernest Boyer, President, Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching

NCS believes it is vital that the education the child receives at school continues in the home. For this reason, the parents’ understanding of the unique nature of the NCS curriculum must support a child’s enrollment in the school.

Novato Charter School offers instruction for Kindergarten through 8th grade. In order to foster a close and meaningful relationship with each child, a teacher will ideally lead the same group of children for a number of years. Other skilled professionals may teach specialty subjects. Based on a pedagogical model of the developing child, the lessons emphasize developmental rhythms. Within this framework, the teachers select and present the subject matter integrating Waldorf-methods with other best educational practices tailored to the learning needs of each child. For further grade level details, see the Novato Charter School Parent Handbook.