Each day at Shade Canyon School, a tuition-free TK-3rd grade school open to all students in Lake County, is gently structured around rhythms and routines that p
By following a rhythm rather than a strict clock-based schedule, we allow for organic breathing room in our day. In the image of one of our class chalkboards above, you’ll notice there are no times marked next to each activity. Activities begin and end when the teacher senses the time for a transition. The length of some activities may vary daily - for example, Read Aloud may come to a natural stopping point at the end of a chapter leaving the children excited to find out what happens next – while other activities, such as basket weaving or handwork, may be extended to provide opportunity to complete a project or stay in the flow.
No matter the day, students can count on core activities, like circle, meals, and clean up, to occur at generally the same time every day (grumbling tummies always let us know when it’s time to eat!). Our daily rhythm also incorporates periods of active learning and quiet reflection. You’ll notice that times of increased focus, like Main Lesson or Reading, are punctuated with breaks like snack time or games. Following this rest and active cycle, or as we call it, in breath and out breath, helps students to feel grounded and balanced throughout the entirety of the day.
Throughout the year, our curriculum is adjusted to reflect the changes in the natural world. For example, a lesson in the fall might focus on harvest and gathering, while winter lessons could explore themes of rest and inner warmth. The materials in our classrooms also change with the seasons - rooms are adorned with treasures discovered on nature walks like acorns and leaves in the fall or a butterfly’s eggs in the spring. Such items invite observation and deepen understanding of the natural world. We also spend plenty of time outdoors, in all types of weather, so children may experience seasonal changes with all of their senses.
Our students prepare for and take part in traditional Waldorf festivals that celebrate the changing seasons and cultural traditions such as the Festival of Courage, Winter Spiral, Candle Making, and May Faire. These festivals are a foundational part of our school year and allow the children to mark the passage of time in a more meaningful way than a calendar.
By aligning our school year with the natural cycles of the day and year, we nurture students' physical, emotional, and intellectual growth in a holistic and respectful way. In our small school, you’ll find an ebb and flow, an in and out breath, and a gentle rhythm that encourages students to connect with nature, their community and themselves.
If this type of school day and year sounds right for you and your child, we invite you to contact us to find out about enrollment opportunities. School has started, but we still have a few spots available for the 2024-25 school year.
About Shade Canyon School
A tuition-free education based on the core principles of a Public Waldorf philosophy is now possible for the children of Lake County. Conveniently located in Kelseyville, Shade Canyon School provides a holistic, arts and outdoor play-based learning program that engages every student’s head, heart and hands. Our small, inclusive school setting nurtures strong relationships and community as we grow the whole child. Enrollment is currently open for TK-3rd grade students for the 2024-25 school year. Come grow with us 🌿
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