Shining Mountain Waldorf School

This school allows kids to be themselves, live fully in their expression and feel love and support in community.

I am a grateful alumna and am now also a parent of a child attending Shining Mountain. I have such fond memories of my time as a student: the depth of caring I felt from my teachers, the unique curriculum, the friendships with classmates, the beautiful setting of the foothills. Waldorf education tends to each aspect of ourselves as human beings: social, physical, mental, emotional, etc and I feel it has helped me cultivate a wholistic sense of balance in my life. As a parent, I'm again feeling so much appreciation for the dedication and loving kindness off all the faculty and staff, and the wonderful qualities of the families whose children attend the school. I value being part of this community, and my son is also happy and thriving at Shining Mountain. I have so much gratitude for this school!!

Shining Mountain Waldorf School is giving my sons a challenging, well-rounded, authentic education. With integrated studies of science, history, math, art, and two world languages, Waldorf education is a modern day Renaissance education. Most importantly, it is also a moral education, helping them develop strong character. Their outdoor education program, yearly circus performances, choral and orchestral programs are outstanding. Their classes integrate movement, singing, art, and poetry. They teach through a block system, allowing for deep understanding of each subject while studying it for three-four weeks at a time. The families create true community at Shining Mountain. The teachers and staff work with restorative communication programs, and the whole school benefits from a social health group, and the established Living Community Principles for communicating and working together. At Shining Mountain, students are truly seen by their teachers!

Shining Mountain is a great school! I am the proud parent of a kindergartner on their third year at SMWS. My family and I were introduced to Waldorf education by friends; they spoke very highly about the philosophy and I was attracted to the idea of an education that understood human development in a deeper sense and adjusted to the needs of each individual child. The school has allowed for my child to develop in the most beautiful way possible, at their own pace, really enjoying being a child and with a thorough understanding of social skills, morality and the world around them. We have also found a supportive community in staff and families; the faculty is highly skilled, responsible and I have experienced the teachers working hard to get to know each one of their students in order to help them with their education. The school is run by a thoughtful group of leaders that maintain high education standards and cares deeply about the future of its students in relationship with a rapidly changing world.

The front range community is incredibly lucky to have a K-12 Waldorf school in our area. Situated in beautiful natural surroundings, this school is well-funded, well-resourced, and equipped with a collaborative, inspired staff. The arts and music programs remain strong even in times when many school are cutting costs in these areas. The teachers are committed to individual attention, seeing each student for their unique strengths and helping guide them through their challenges. Classes balance academic rigor with time outdoors, and robust creative and physical activity. And the oldest students (in the high school) display clearly the awareness, care, and conscientiousness that has been learned through this education.

My daughter started at SMWS in the beginning of 3rd Grade. The children and teachers have been incredibly inclusive and her transition to a new school has been filled with love and grace. She is thriving in this beautiful, warm and intentional community. I am also a new class teacher at SMWS. Despite COVID, I have been welcomed as a member of the faculty and staff graciously. There is clearly a deep level of respect and openness between colleagues as well as genuine care and concern for the wellbeing of every single student. On top of all this, the school is set in the most magical and picturesque environment. The view of the mountains is stunning and expansive. It's truly a joy and honor to be at SMWS!!

Both of my daughters are very happy with Shining Mountain. I'm happy that the school has worked with us to make it affordable even with the stress Covid has put on my business. I recommend you check it out for yourself to see if it's a good fit for you and your children.