Our Parents

We are very fortunate to have an active, diverse and committed group of parents here at SWS.  We asked several of them to share some thoughts about their families, their school, and what they want for their children:

Brooke Curie

Waldorf Teacher in Training, Substitute Teacher

Waldorf Parent since: 2004

My children are:  Camryn, 9 –  4th Grade.  Cole, 6 – Kindergarten. Fiona, 2  –  future student.

How I found the Sarasota Waldorf School:  My husband and I were relocating to Sarasota from Ohio. We were searching for a school for our daughter, who was about to enter Kindergarten. We noticed an ad for the school in the local magazine, Natural Awakenings.

Why I chose SWS for my family:  I had never heard of Waldorf Schools before I saw that ad, but when I made the call and began to learn about this unique form of education I was so excited because it felt totally right. It wasn’t long before I knew that here I’d also found my path, and began to pursue my Master’s degree in Waldorf education.

My own education experiences were:  Basic public schools, K-12. I knew I wanted something different for my children.

My favorite Waldorf memory so far:  It is SO hard to choose just one! But OK: Seeing my daughter overcome fears and self-consciousness, and watching her blossom and shine in her part as a main character in last year’s World Music Play. It was so moving to see this production. The group of children came together and grew and learned in so many dynamic ways it would be hard to name them all. Its examples like this play that really illustrate for me how Waldorf education is truly a healing art.

If I could grant one wish for my children, it would be: For their school and family to support them in unfolding who they are meant to be. And that they will become adults who can bring forth their unique gifts with joy, working in the world with purpose, for the betterment of all humankind.

Something that surprised me about Waldorf:  Every single piece of the curriculum has been consciously planned for how it will support the healthy development of the child. That means from the broad view of what will be studied in each grade, down to the smallest detail of the daily schedule. The rhythm of a waldorf school’s years and days are filled with wisdom which supports the child’s optimum growth.

My favorite place in Sarasota is: Siesta Key Beach! The energy here is so magical, with the crystal sand and turquoise waves.

The best part of my day is:  Any time that I’m truly connecting with my family, my friends, or myself!

Daniel Gerdes

General Contractor – Mathur & Gerdes, Inc.

Waldorf Parent since:  2003

My children are: Grace – 4th Grade, Ella  - 1st Grade, Cora – at home but going to playgroup next Monday (according to her)

How I found the Sarasota Waldorf School:  I have to give the credit completely to my wife.

Why I chose SWS for my family:  My wife knows best.

My own education experiences were:  I attended public schools through high school. Had a great time.

My favorite Waldorf memory so far:  I have lots of great memories. The one that made me aware that SWS was right for our family was when Grace came home from Kindergarten and said that Magic happens at school.

Something that surprised me about Waldorf:  The knitting they teach them in first grade. I thought knitting was for Grandmas. Grace absolutely loves it.

If I could grant one wish for my children, it would be:  To have fun at whatever they do in life. Life is so serious, everyone should relax a little and have more fun.

My favorite place in Sarasota is: The golf course.

The best part of my day is:  Getting mauled by my kids as I get out of my car each night. Sometimes they even crawl through the window before I can open the door.

 

Cynthia Frank

Then – Real Estate Appraiser, Now – Director of Business Development FL title insurance and Debt Compression Agent

Waldorf Parent since: 2007

My children are: Cody, age 5 – Kindergarten

How I found the Sarasota Waldorf School:  It was highly recommended by a close, trusted friend, so I volunteered at the school to learn more about it.

Why I chose SWS for my family: I was thoroughly impressed by what I saw: delighted “puddle walking” kindergarteners dressed in raincoats and boots and carrying umbrellas following their statuesque teacher like ducklings; loving, gentle teachers kindly guiding children through inspiring lessons; and an environment that was respectful of all things, most importantly the children. 

My own education experiences were: Public, somewhat uninspired, and focused on grades and conformity, rather than creativity and a love of learning.

My favorite Waldorf memory so far: I love to watch my son and his friends participate in Waldorf ceremonies and festivals. The sense of awe and reverence that they bring is magical. I am amazed that it can be brought to life in children so young. I am overwhelmed with emotion at every event……...yes, tears.

Something that surprised me about Waldorf: I was very surprised that the teachers meet regularly to discuss and positively focus on each child. Also, I have never seen a group of parents that are so dedicated to their children’s schooling.

If I could grant one wish for my child, it would be: That he becomes a happy, fulfilled, useful adult with solid values.

My favorite place in Sarasota is: The beach at the northern tip of Longboat Key.

The best part of my day is: Seeing my son’s shining face when I pick him up from school.

Phil Leonard

Senior Director of Quality Assurance, Jackson Hewitt

Waldorf Parent since:  2006

My children are:  in Kindergarten and 3rd Grade.

How I found the Sarasota Waldorf School:  We had friends that attended the school and my wife attended an open house and fell in love with the teaching philosophy.

Why I chose SWS for my family:  The subtle approach of learning seams to really engage the children fully and create an environment where they can learn concepts more fully than a traditional educational approach.

My own education experiences were:  I attended public school elementary through high school and graduated with a BA in Computer Science from FSU.

My favorite Waldorf memory so far:  Seeing how cursive was introduced. Form drawings gave the students the skills, then it was slowly introduced on the chalkboard a few letters at a time and the class already had the skills they needed to easily master the new form of writing. 

Something that surprised me about Waldorf: For Father’s Day, Owen knitted me a rooster and two chicks from the handwork skills he learned at Sarasota Waldorf. They were precious; I keep them on my desk at work to remind me of what little hands can accomplish.

If I could grant one wish for my children, it would be:  That they have fun and success with all that they choose to do in life. 

My favorite place in Sarasota is: The beach.

The best part of my day is:  Sitting at the dinner table listening to my boys share the wonderful stories about their day.