Academic Support at Honolulu Waldorf School
The Honolulu Waldorf School complies with ADA guidelines for independent schools by offering reasonable accommodations and program modifications that will allow students with a range of mild to moderate disabilities to attend the school.
Honolulu Waldorf School emphasizes a holistic and experiential approach to education, which includes a focus on nurturing the intellectual, emotional, and physical development of each student. We offer academic support as needed. Here are ways academic support is provided at our school:
- Academic Success Plans: We recognize that each child has a unique learning style and pace. If a student is struggling academically, the school’s Learning Specialist and teachers can work with parents to create individualized support plans that cater to the child’s specific needs.
- Small Class Sizes: Honolulu Waldorf School often maintains smaller class sizes, which allows for more personalized attention from teachers. This can be particularly beneficial for students who require additional support or have specific learning challenges.
- Subject-Specific Support: If a student faces difficulties in reading in grades 1-3, HWS offers reading intervention support. This includes specialized teaching methods implemented by our school’s Reading Specialist to help students develop reading skills.
- Supportive Learning Environment: The Waldorf approach places a strong emphasis on creating a nurturing and supportive learning environment. Teachers aim to foster a love of learning and a sense of confidence in each student, which can indirectly support academic success.
- Emphasis on Arts and Movement: Waldorf education incorporates arts and movement into the curriculum, which is believed to stimulate cognitive development. These creative and kinesthetic activities can be used to reinforce academic concepts and engage students in their learning.
- Parent-Teacher Collaboration: We encourage close collaboration between parents and teachers. This partnership allows parents to stay informed about their child’s progress and challenges and work together with teachers to address academic concerns.
- External Services: If a student exhibits symptoms of a learning difference, HWS may recommend external evaluations or collaborate with outside professionals to provide the necessary support. We also allow external tutors to work with students on campus if they have undergone a fingerprint clearance check.