The Windrose Journal
A Waldorf Blog
The Windrose Journal is a grounded, thoughtful space where stories, reflections, and insights from the Waldorf School of DuPage community come together—past, present, and future. Like a compass rose, it helps orient families, educators, and alumni as we navigate the evolving world of Waldorf education and child development. Here, you’ll find a meaningful blend of tradition and innovation, sharing voices that illuminate the heart of our school. Whether you're seeking inspiration, perspective, or connection, The Windrose Journal offers guidance rooted in experience and purpose.
You can explore posts by topic or simply scroll down to see our most recent content. Happy reading!
Beyond the Test: How We Assess Learning in a Waldorf Main Lesson Block
Assessment in a Waldorf classroom goes beyond a single test. See how teachers observe, listen, and review student work to understand what each child knows, how they think, and where they’re headed next.
Why We Teach the Same Ideas Again and Again
Why do some subjects keep coming back in a Waldorf classroom? It’s by design. Discover how our spiral curriculum helps children build deeper, longer-lasting understanding, one return visit at a time.
What Do Children Really Learn in a Waldorf Kindergarten? More Than You Might Think
What do children really learn in a play-based kindergarten? See how stories, songs, and play at The Waldorf School of DuPage build the foundation for a lifetime of learning.
Meet Rowan: A Teacher Bringing Music, Motorcycles, and a Sense of Wonder to the Classroom
Brand new to Waldorf but far from new to teaching, Rowan brings a B.A. in Music and Theatre and three years of classroom experience to our faculty. Get to know the teacher whose favorite quote reminds us: it's the journey that matters most.
RIGOR BY DESIGN: How a Waldorf Education Builds Deep, Lasting Thinking — A Look Through Bloom's Taxonomy
Storytelling, handwork, and art are easy to spot in a Waldorf classroom — but where's the rigor? Using Bloom's Taxonomy, the same framework schools worldwide use to measure depth of thinking, we walk through how Waldorf education moves students from simple recall all the way to original, independent creative work.
From WSD Student to WSD Teacher: Meet Ms. DuRocher
Waldorf education isn't just Ms. DuRocher's career, it's her life story. From growing up as a WSD student to earning her Master's in Education and spending over a decade teaching in Waldorf classrooms, she brings a rare depth of expertise paired with genuine warmth to every child she teaches.
Meet Ms. McLachlan: A Teacher Who Sees the World with New Eyes
From early childhood assistant to master Waldorf teacher, Ms. McLachlan has spent over a decade bringing warmth, wonder, and wisdom to WSD classrooms. Get to know the teacher families can't stop talking about.
Meet Ms. Slattery: First Grade Guided by Experience, Warmth, and a Love of Learning
"They are requesting the courage to find a collection of possible answers." Meet Ms. Slattery, whose favorite quote shapes how she guides first graders toward strong academics, confident thinking, and genuine joy in learning.
Meet Mrs. Bevard: Teaching Children to Long for the Sea
From teaching swimming lessons at sixteen to leading a Waldorf classroom today, Ms. Bevard has spent her life helping others discover something new. Get to know the teacher behind the philosophy — and the "endless immensity of the sea" she hopes to inspire in every child.
The Rose Ceremony: A First Step Into the Waldorf Academic Journey
On the first day of school, eighth graders and the entire community welcomes the 1st graders to the academic journey of Waldorf, each receiving a rose. Learn more about what to expect during this moving tradition.
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