Homeschool Offerings for Middle Schoolers! Grades 6-8

The Waldorf School of DuPage is pleased to announce a new initiative for the 2024-2025 school year. We are welcoming homeschool students in middle school to register for some special subject classes that we offer to our students in grades 6-8. Below you will find a description of each of the subjects we are offering, along with our pricing structure. If you are interested in getting more information about this program, please fill out this survey.

Middle School Choir:

Choral singing is ultimately a very human and communal endeavor. Creating music with a group of singers is an experience that brings students together and helps them better understand their own emotions. Singing in our choir teaches children not only music skills and theory, but collaborative skills, and emotional intelligence. Choir teachers at WSD work pointedly to explore the emotional gamut with their song selections and musical experiences. These experiences culminate in a concert at the end of the term. Pre-requisites: none.

Middle School Orchestra:

The goal in teaching the young musician is to nurture a love for the art of music that will last a lifetime. The middle school string orchestra is for the young musician who has had a few years of playing experience, but is newer to the orchestral environment.  We work on learning to play together as an ensemble: following the conductor, listening to ourselves and to one another.  Students learn to collaborate, challenge and support one another, as they “find their own voice” through their instruments. A variety of music styles are chosen from different countries and composers, helping to encourage global awareness.  Music theory is discussed to support each piece culminating in a performance at the end of the semester. Pre-requisites: A few years of experience is necessary.

Spanish:

Spanish class in the middle school years is an exciting time! The curriculum builds on the knowledge acquired during previous years by incorporating more grammar, spelling and conversation skills. We take time to work in tandem with classroom teachers in order to incorporate topics that are being covered during the main lesson into Spanish classes. Additionally, we take time to work on the history, myths and legends of various cultures throughout Central and South America; as well as understanding the link these carry to Spain. Pre-requisites: An introduction to Spanish is strongly encouraged.

Games and Movement:

In Middle school, we are in need of moving our bodies to help manage our focus and mood. Utilizing our full 5 acre property of the woods and the “bowl”, we explore different scenery in relationship with the seasons. Our focus on team oriented games strengthens bonds between the children while challenging them. Our approach is a blend of traditional field games (10 ball, capture the flag) mixed with a variety of story inspired Waldorf games. This is our second year introducing Archery through the NASP curriculum in Fall /Spring. This class fosters self-confidence  while encouraging respect for yourself and each other. Pre-requisites: none.

Yoga

Yoga in middle school follows the MBM approach of mindfulness, breath, and movement. We start to practice the full curated movements of Sun Salutations A and B. Mats are in a circle formation promoting togetherness and community. Starting with beginner movements, we  build over time more balance and advanced expressions. Yoga games and partner poses are woven into each class. Pre-requisites: none.

Handwork

In 6th grade, children learn basic hand sewing, and know how to turn a 2-dimensional image of an animal into a 3-dimensional stuffed toy. In 7th grade, we continue to develop skills in hand sewing, and also learn some embroidery. Projects vary but can include slippers and other clothing, decorative items and dolls. In 8th grade we learn to use a sewing machine. We begin with a patchwork pillow and then move on to pajama pants. Pre-requisites: none

Pricing Structure

We have options for individual classes (a la carte) and multiple courses as well. We offer a discount if you sign up for packages which include either two or three classes. See the chart below for details!

We offer two, 15 week options.
Fall/Winter Semester: September 8-December 19
Winter/Spring Semester: January 13-May 9

*There are some days that school is not in session and the program will not run. You will receive a school calendar when you apply that will give you all the information about when we are not in school.

*Program subject to change