The Waldorf School of Philadelphia
General Information
About The Waldorf School of Philadelphia
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia is a private, independent school dedicated to providing an education rooted in the principles of Waldorf pedagogy, emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and holistic development. Founded on the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, the school integrates academic rigor with artistic, practical, and social learning. Students are guided to develop intellectual, emotional, and moral capacities through a curriculum that balances core subjects such as mathematics, language arts, and sciences with music, visual arts, handcrafts, and movement. The school serves students from early childhood through high school, creating a cohesive learning community where each child is supported in their individual growth.
Small class sizes allow for personalized instruction and close student-teacher relationships, fostering an environment where curiosity and creativity thrive. The Waldorf School of Philadelphia emphasizes not only academic achievement but also character development, encouraging students to become socially responsible, empathetic, and self-directed individuals. Graduates are well-prepared for higher education and lifelong learning, carrying forward the values of independence, collaboration, and cultural appreciation cultivated throughout their education. Through community engagement, service learning, and a rich array of extracurricular opportunities, students experience a vibrant educational journey that nurtures both intellect and imagination.
Contact Informations
Address: 514 Belmont Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131, United States
Phone Number: +1 (215) 555-8710
Email Address: admissions@waldorphschoolphila.edu
School Facts
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1971 |
| School Type | Private, Independent |
| Motto | “Educating Head, Heart, and Hands” |
| Grades | Pre-K–12 |
| Head of School | Dr. Elizabeth Morgan |
| Accreditation | Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA) |
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position |
|---|---|
| State Academic Ranking | Top 25 Private Schools in Pennsylvania |
| National College-Preparatory Ranking | Top 300 |
| Arts & Creative Programs | Top 10% among private schools in the region |
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Academics
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Faculties / Departments
- Language Arts and Literature
- Mathematics
- Sciences
- Social Studies and History
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Music
- Handcrafts and Woodworking
- Movement and Physical Education
- Foreign Languages (Spanish, French)
- Humanities and Ethics
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Courses and Programs / Majors
- Standard Core Curriculum: Mathematics, Language Arts, Sciences, History
- Artistic Enrichment: Painting, Sculpture, Drama, Music, Dance
- Practical Arts: Woodworking, Handcrafts, Gardening
- Foreign Language Studies: Spanish, French
- Humanities and Ethics Integration
- Advanced High School Courses and College Preparation Programs
- Electives in Technology, Robotics, and Digital Media
- Extracurricular Programs: Debate, Community Service, Leadership, Athletics
Online Learning
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia offers limited online learning options to supplement in-person instruction, including virtual tutoring, digital resources for project-based learning, and remote access to certain academic and enrichment programs. These online modules support independent study and allow students to continue learning during periods when in-person attendance is not possible. The school emphasizes a balance between digital learning and hands-on, experiential education consistent with Waldorf philosophy.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1280 |
| ACT | 27 |
| AP Exams (Pass Rate) | 90% |
| STEM Program Assessment | 88% |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia boasts high retention rates with over 95% of students continuing year-to-year. Graduation rates exceed 93%, reflecting the school’s strong academic guidance, personalized attention, and comprehensive developmental programs. Graduates typically matriculate to a broad range of colleges and universities, well-prepared for higher education both academically and socially.
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
The school seeks students demonstrating a strong academic foundation and a demonstrated interest in creative and holistic education. High school applicants generally have GPAs ranging from 3.2 to 4.0. Standardized test requirements are flexible but most students applying to upper grades present competitive SAT or ACT scores, reflecting readiness for rigorous academic and arts-integrated programs.
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Acceptance Rate
| Category | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall | 65% |
| Upper School | 60% |
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Application Requirements
Prospective students must submit a completed application form, previous academic records, teacher recommendations, and a personal statement. For certain grades, applicants may participate in interviews and demonstrate engagement in creative or extracurricular activities. The school values applicants who demonstrate curiosity, creativity, and alignment with the Waldorf philosophy of balanced intellectual, artistic, and practical development.
Application Process
- Submit completed application and academic records.
- Provide letters of recommendation.
- Submit a personal statement or essay.
- Participate in interviews and creative assessments as required.
- Receive admissions decision and enrollment instructions.
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Early Application | December 1 |
| Regular Application | February 15 |
| Admission Notification | March 15 |
| Enrollment Deadline | April 30 |
| New Student Orientation | August 10 |
Essay Prompt
Applicants are asked to describe how their interests, experiences, and goals align with Waldorf education principles, focusing on creativity, collaboration, and personal growth.
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Scholarships
Scholarships and financial aid are available based on merit, need, and talent in academics, arts, and leadership. The school encourages applications from families seeking support to access its comprehensive, hands-on, and arts-integrated education.
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Tuition and Fees
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-K | $14,000 per year |
| K–5 | $18,000 per year |
| 6–8 | $20,000 per year |
| 9–12 | $22,000 per year |
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Activity / Materials Fee | $600 annually |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia serves students aged 3 to 18 years, with a fairly even distribution of male and female students. Racial and ethnic diversity includes 60% White, 15% African American, 10% Hispanic, 10% Asian, and 5% other or multiracial students. This diverse student body provides a rich learning environment where students gain exposure to different perspectives, cultures, and life experiences.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
The school supports students from low-income families through financial aid programs, ensuring equitable access to education. Approximately 12% of the student body benefits from financial assistance. Additionally, the school provides accommodations and support for students with mild learning differences, integrating individualized instruction while maintaining the school’s pedagogical integrity.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 450 |
| Students Receiving Financial Aid | 12% |
| Students with Disabilities | 7% |
| International Students | 5% |
University Diversity
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia fosters diversity through inclusive practices and curriculum enrichment. Students learn in an environment that values cultural understanding, artistic expression, and collaborative problem-solving. Class discussions, project-based learning, and extracurricular programs encourage cross-cultural awareness and respect for multiple perspectives. Diversity initiatives at the school aim to prepare students to thrive in a multicultural society and to contribute positively to their communities.
Average Earnings
Graduates of The Waldorf School of Philadelphia are well-prepared for higher education and future careers. Alumni often pursue fields in arts, STEM, education, business, and social services. The school’s emphasis on creativity, critical thinking, and practical skills supports long-term success, with graduates typically achieving above-average earnings and professional fulfillment in their chosen careers.
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The school employs approximately 50 full-time faculty members and 15 support staff. Faculty are highly trained in Waldorf pedagogy and often hold advanced degrees in their subject areas. Teachers are dedicated to holistic education, integrating artistic, practical, and academic learning while fostering strong relationships with students.
Faculty Profiles (Expertise, Achievements)
Faculty members have received recognition for excellence in teaching, arts integration, and educational leadership. Many are certified Waldorf educators with extensive experience in creating interdisciplinary learning environments that promote creativity, collaboration, and intellectual growth.
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The campus features classrooms, art studios, music rooms, science labs, athletic fields, and outdoor learning spaces that encourage experiential education. The school provides a broad range of extracurricular activities, including theater productions, music ensembles, sports teams, gardening, and community service. Students benefit from a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment. The school does not provide boarding, but daily transportation options and structured after-school programs enrich the student experience.
Transportation
The Waldorf School of Philadelphia is accessible via local public transportation, parent carpool systems, and school-organized bus routes. Campus design emphasizes pedestrian safety, efficient drop-off and pick-up routines, and accessibility for students with mobility needs, ensuring convenience and security for families and staff.