First, tell us a little about yourself. Your name, what grades you attended Seacoast Waldorf School, and where are you now?
Seacoast Waldorf School Alum June, attended Seacoast Waldorf School from Kindergarten through 8th grade. She now attends Barnard College of Columbia University
My name is June, I live in Kennebunkport, Maine, and I attended Seacoast Waldorf School (SWS) from kindergarten all the way through eighth grade. In high school I made the transition to my local public school in Kennebunk, ME. I am now a freshman at Barnard College of Columbia University in New York City.
Tell us about some of your fondest memories of your time at Seacoast Waldorf School.
Seacoast Waldorf School was a foundation I am so happy I experienced. Some of my favorite memories include meeting some of my closest friends in first grade, who I am still in touch with today. I loved all of the art projects and hands-on learning that was incorporated into our lessons, and I am extremely artistic today because of it. Unique traditions such as May Faire or Michaelmas were such exciting events to anticipate each year and be fully involved in. I am also forever grateful that I spent a large part of my childhood interacting closely with nature. Afternoons spent playing in the endless woods, talking with my engaged peers, and constantly singing and dancing are some of the things that stick out as essential in making me the person I am now.
Was there a teacher, class, project, or experience at Seacoast Waldorf that had a lasting impact on you?
One of the most special parts of Waldorf education is that your main teacher stays with you for eight consistent years. I would consider Mrs. Drennan to be one of the most foundational educators in my childhood, and it was so special for me to get to grow with her guidance and have her as a wonderful role model in my life. Mrs. Drennan taught me to be curious, creative, and patient, and reminded me when it was sometimes better to listen to others than talk their ear off. I credit her for my artistic abilities, my drive for knowledge, my kindness to others and my sense of humor; being able to laugh at myself when things may go wrong. She will always stand out as a prominent teacher in my life, and I am so honored that I got to be her student for such a uniquely long time.
How do you think your Waldorf education shaped the way you learn, think, or approach new challenges?
I think that Waldorf education stands apart in the way it teaches you to step back, slow down, and be curious. I believe that my senses of empathy and care are heightened because of the Waldorf curriculum prompting me to put myself in other people’s shoes, consider other perspectives, and learn about all types of cultures and lifestyles. I approach challenges with an open mind and an optimistic attitude, and the engaging style of Waldorf teaching makes me crave learning and excited about new things. Additionally, Waldorf education is incredibly focused on the artistic side of learning, something I am incredibly grateful for as an artist in many fields such as performance, movement, music and fine arts. Finally, the lack of screens and technology incorporated into my learning (until seventh grade) allowed me to truly be present and learn how to not depend on technology for my education. I now feel very capable of accomplishing handwritten, hands-on, or artistic tasks.
In what ways do you feel your experience at Seacoast Waldorf prepared you for college and for where you are today?
College is an entirely new environment for everyone, with most adolescents never having lived away from home, been independent, or relied on themselves before. Seacoast Waldorf has prepared me for this experience by reminding me that I am strong and capable of many things on my own without having to depend on external assistance. It also taught me how to create meaningful connections by intentionally socializing with others and giving everyone the benefit of the doubt. I have an open mind to all subjects and am always curious about trying new classes, clubs, and communities. Seacoast Waldorf also gave me confidence in my artistic abilities across all mediums, and my first taste of theater, something I am incredibly passionate about today and want to do forever. I feel that without SWS I wouldn’t have ended up at Barnard, because to be here you need to foster a certain curiosity and passion about the world around you that Waldorf education absolutely gives every student.
For a family considering Seacoast Waldorf School, what would you want to share with them about your experience?
Seacoast Waldorf School is one of the most unique and well-rounded educations you can give your child. This school taught me two languages, countless instruments, thousands of songs and dances, to appreciate nature, and how to be a true friend. I learned about every part of the world in a hands-on way, explored math and science through physical action and experience, and took learning at my own pace with the guidance of wonderfully talented and caring educators. By staying with the same teacher and classmates for 8 or more years, I learned how to form long-lasting, meaningful connections with peers and adults, many of which I am still in touch with. If it weren’t for Waldorf education, I don’t believe I would be as curious, empathetic, adventurous, social or driven as I am today. I am now at an Ivy League in New York City, confident that my schooling has given me the tools to navigate the real world. I would choose a Waldorf childhood every time.
