For a student in the Waldorf environment, music, theatre, writing, literature, legends and myths are not simply subjects to be read about, ingested and tested upon. They are experienced. Through these experiences, students cultivate a lifelong love of learning as well as the intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual capacities to be individuals certain of their paths and to be of service to the world.

A broad curriculum strives to achieve a balance between the sciences, the humanities and the arts. Appreciation and reverence for the natural world and the cultural heritage of humanity form the core of the curriculum. Throughout, emphasis is placed on development of the child and the integration of knowledge with the student's own experience of life. Thus, deep involvement between student and subbject becomes a source of real joy.

Harmony between home life and school life is important for a child's education. A well-balanced rhythm and a dependable daily structure nurture the growing child and foster his/her ability to learn. By supporting the educational ideals of the school at home, we build bridges between home and school.

At Great River School, we encourage the child's natural creativity and imagination by providing time and materials for drawing, painting, music, games and storytelling. To benefit fully from the richness of spirit that a Waldorf-inspired education offers, all Great River families are encouraged to limit or remove the influence of electronic media in the lives of their young children. Television, movies, video games, music players, and radio all have an effect on the development of a child, both physically and emotionally.

A central aim of the Waldorf approach is to stimulate the healthy development of the child's own imagination. Teachers who embrace the Waldorf philosophy are aware that electornic media hampers the development of the child's imagination. They are concerned about the physical effects of the medium on the developing child as well as the content of much of the programming.

Parents who wish to find alternatives to main-stream media are encouraged to talk with teachers. Parents are invited and required to attend regular parent evenings with the class teacher where topics such as class community and pedagogy will be discussed.