Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
At The Waldorf School of DuPage, we center the dignity and inherent worth of every human being in all we do. We see each child as a divine spiritual being, and this belief guides our curriculum, teaching practices, and daily interactions.
Our school is part of an international network of Waldorf schools rooted in many cultures and traditions. These global influences come to life through stories, festivals, conversations, and field trips—helping each student feel a sense of belonging and pride in their identity. We hold differences with curiosity, respect, and love, knowing our community is enriched by its diversity.
We recognize our responsibility to challenge injustice and uplift marginalized voices. As a school, we unequivocally reject the devaluation of any person and denounce racism, bigotry, and oppression in all forms. This includes acknowledging and disavowing any statements made by Rudolf Steiner that do not reflect our values. We are committed to dismantling structural bias—especially within Waldorf education—and to engaging in ongoing anti-racist work. This includes acknowledging and rejecting any statements by Rudolf Steiner that conflict with our values.
This work is core to our mission of social renewal and is carried forward by our faculty, administration, and board. We are united in creating a school community rooted in equity, inclusion, and belonging—for every student, every day.
Statement of Equity and Racial Justice from The Association of Waldorf Schools of North America
The Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA) recognizes the historic and ongoing impact of racism on our continent and the injustice and discrimination faced by Black, Brown, Indigenous and People of Color. We understand that racial justice in education is a journey of both moral and educational imperative. As such, we take seriously our responsibility to bear witness to what is happening in the world, to center the voices of color in justice work, and to change the course of inequities by identifying and breaking down structural racism in all forms within Waldorf education.
We acknowledge that Rudolf Steiner, founder of Waldorf education (1919), offered many profound insights that support the value and dignity of each human being and form the foundation of our organization’s histories and worldview. Yet, he also made statements that reflect harmful assertions regarding race and ethnicity. Racism, explicit or implicit, stands in direct conflict to the fundamental principles of Waldorf education. We commit to working to address any dehumanizing or disparaging aspects of our history and practices.