Letter From the Board Vice President

Dear Waldorf School of St. Louis Supporters, 

As we transition from the warmth of summer to the crispness of autumn, the season of gratitude and giving approaches. This time of year can sometimes feel like it happens in fast-forward. It's a constant rush from one thing to another, and I, like many, struggle with the pervasive sense of busyness, which makes it hard to live fully in the present.

Recently, I noticed my body's natural instinct to slow down the moment I step onto The Waldorf School of St. Louis’ (WSSL) campus. Any worries or cares I have ruminating in my mind seem to hit the snooze button when I arrive at our school. There's a feeling of calmness and joy there that I naturally tune into, reminding me to pause and appreciate the moment.

Upon reflection, I realize that this harmonious feeling is no coincidence. As I have gotten to know the teachers and staff over the last 2.5 years, I recognize that the magical atmosphere of our school exists because of them. When you hear them speak about the work that they do, you sense their deep connection to it. The dedication and passion that they carry with them is alive and engaged. What might seem like a simple activity during the school day is never really simple at all. Many layers stand behind it. There is depth. There is intention. There is purpose. 

The children sense this, too. They are not only being taught, they are being inspired. They are not only being cared for, they are being fulfilled. The joy of learning is a living, tangible presence. Have you felt it too?

WSSL is a small school that accomplishes very big things with limited resources. Classes that are typically considered extracurricular are foundational, even with our younger learners. Classes such as: music where children learn to read music and play instruments; handwork which includes knitting, crocheting, felting, and woodworking; foreign language; preparing food; and finally, nature-exploration where exposure to the wonders of the natural world is enjoyed. 

Maintaining this exceptional, educational environment while keeping tuition costs accessible for all is a significant undertaking; one that the school cannot accomplish on its own. A thriving and sustainable school across all grade levels depends on the collective support of our community. Will you help us?

This month kicks off WSSL's largest fundraising drive of the year: The Circle of Giving. Each contribution toward this year's $25,000 goal is an offering of gratitude that supports all of the people, programs, and experiences that make learning vibrant, creative, and alive with possibility. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a tangible difference. Please share our story and encourage others in your life to join the circle of giving. Your gift is needed now more than ever.

You can easily make your secure donation online at https://bit.ly/Waldorfstl.

Thank you for being a vital part of our school's journey. Together, we can continue to cultivate a brighter, more vibrant future for our students and our community.

With deepest gratitude,

Riahna Kastner

Vice President of the Board of Trustees

The Waldorf School of St. Louis