Our son is currently in kindergarten at Marin Waldorf School, where there are two teachers for sixteen students. He can be shy, but he quickly formed strong bonds with his teachers and made friends faster than we expected. Within the first week, we noticed a real shift. He became more confident, independent, and better regulated at home. It truly felt like he had been longing for something he finally found. The school's emphasis on rhythm, storytelling, singing, nature, practical work, and the seasons suits him beautifully. He especially loves starting each morning with a short run near the ancient oak tree before circle time. The time spent outdoors has been incredibly grounding for him. The campus spans ten acres, with plenty of space for the younger children to explore and a separate area for the grade school students. The parent community has also been a wonderful surprise. Families are welcomed with coffee and tea at drop-off, which creates space to connect with other parents and the staff. There are also parent groups, music evenings, lectures, and seasonal festivals throughout the year. Most importantly, our child is genuinely excited to go to school each morning. As busy working parents, we feel very grateful to have found this school. We would wholeheartedly recommend Marin Waldorf School to families looking for a warm, nurturing, and thoughtfully run early childhood program. read more

This is an amazing school! Very respectful of childhood, development, and allowing students to be themselves. Emphasis on creativity and healthy relationships amongst the students, teachers and families. A great community that is supportive and striving. read more

My children attended Marin Waldorf School for 3 years, from preschool to first grade. While I initially chose MWS because they emphasized "outdoor education" and "teaching to the whole child," the reality of this school was vastly different from my expectations. The social environment at Marin Waldorf is highly controlling, even extending beyond the classroom. The school dictates not only the children's behavior at school but also their activities at home. Teachers frequently told kindergarteners to remove shirts if they had "distracting" images of letters or characters. One teacher even said "recorded music" should be banned at home for all the children in the class. This level of control over personal choices felt intrusive, creating an almost cult-like atmosphere of fear and compliance. More troubling, however, is the us-versus-them mindset that permeates the school. "Mainstream" schools are regularly criticized by the administration and faculty with dismissive phrases like "teaching to the test," repeated at every school function and newsletter. If parents question or disagree with Waldorf's methods, they are often ostracized, not just by the administration but by other parents as well. It fosters an insular, in-group culture that discourages healthy dialogue and outside perspectives. One of the most concerning aspects of Waldorf education is its dangerous disregard for academics. By the time my child completed first grade, she had not been taught to read. The school discourages parents from teaching their children to read at home and actively discourages against using reader books. They insist that delaying academics is beneficial, often reassuring concerned parents with statements like, "they will catch up." The delays are based on the unscientific beliefs of Rudolf Steiner, Waldorf's founder, who connected children's readiness to read with esoteric ideas, like the timing of the loss of their first teeth. Their approach puts children far behind their peers in traditional academic environments, making it difficult to transfer them out of the Waldorf system once enrolled. Ask any high school educator - Waldorf children do indeed have a hard time adapting and "catching up". After our family's emancipation into the public school system, we had to hold our bright 1st grader back in kinder because he tested at a beginning K level! Had he stayed in Marin Waldorf, MWS had wanted to hold him back for a third year in K, not because of any learning challenges, but based on some really strange and esoteric beliefs - like not being able to balance on the balance beam for long enough. The spiritual underpinnings of Waldorf education were another major issue for me. While the school claims to be non-religious, they covertly teach children about reincarnation and heaven starting in preschool, incorporate Christian mysticism into class plays, and frequently teach the kids songs about God, angels, and heaven. Any direct questions about religion are met with vague answers or outright denial. They'll claim that they borrow ideas from all world religions - this is an outright lie. Waldorf's educational philosophy is rooted in Anthroposophy alone, a spiritual esoteric belief system. The secrecy surrounding these practices--combined with the fact that parents are not allowed to observe key parts of their child's day, like the morning "verse" or eurythmy--creates an uncomfortable sense of exclusion for parents who aren't themselves "believers". Finally, the school's extreme stance on technology is concerning. We're not just talking no-iPads-in-the-classroom. There are no projectors, no videos, and no computer lessons at all! The children also have no textbooks, and their learning is entirely dependent on their one teacher, who is typically trained only in Waldorf methods. This limits the diversity of perspectives and learning approaches offered to students. After three years at Marin Waldorf, I believe that Waldorf education is not what it claims to be. The promises of "whole child" education sounds appealing but the reality is a controlling, insular environment that prioritizes a narrow, esoteric belief system over academic development and transparency. The administration is also unfriendly and self-interested. A fellow Waldorf parent told me that they placed their deposit, only to change their mind a few weeks later, and lost their deposit. When their alternative school rejected their application, Marin Waldorf actually forced them to pay a second deposit for all of their children! This is only one example of many. I regret falling for their pitch, and I strongly urge parents to carefully research Waldorf's underlying philosophy before enrolling your children. read more

See all

My two children have been attending Marin Waldorf School for three years, starting in preschool and kindergarten. They are currently in kindergarten and 2nd grade. In the beginning, we chose this school for its strong and nurturing environment, where every detail--from the physical space to the daily rhythm--is thoughtfully designed to support children's growth and learning. Over the years, our appreciation for the school has only deepened. We are especially grateful for the dedication and care of the teachers and staff, who not only support each child as an individual but also foster a sense of community among the students. Contrary to some misconceptions about Waldorf education, this school offers a progressive approach that truly prepares children to be thoughtful, engaged citizens in the modern world. We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a special school community. read more

My husband and I visited nearly ten schools in Marin and consulted our education advisor before selecting Marin Waldorf for our three-year-old son. To be closer to the school, we even moved from Larkspur to San Rafael. Our decision was based on several key reasons: A Holistic Educational Philosophy While we both have strong academic backgrounds and work experience, we deeply value an education that nurtures the whole child. Academics are important, but we also want a school that fosters a child's full potential--intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. Exceptional Faculty Many schools make promises they struggle to fulfill, but Marin Waldorf is different. The faculty here not only live up to their philosophy--they exceed it. One word that stood out during our visits was intentional. Everything they do is thoughtful, purposeful, and deeply rooted in their educational approach. Emphasis on Creativity and Imagination We strongly believe that creativity and imagination will be key differentiators between humans and AI in the future. Marin Waldorf nurtures these qualities in a way that we truly admire. We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of the Marin Waldorf community--it is truly a rare find! read more

Waldorf allows your child to be an actual child in this day and age, full of innocence and wonder. The low media approach and science backed methodology used here is a what allows children to grow into confident, caring and nurturing young adults who enjoy reading, have a thirst for knowledge and are connected to nature. read more

We live in a fast-changing world and the experience of our children is often markedly different from that of our own when we ourselves were in school. However, certain aspects stay true across generations and it is especially important in our times to have that anchor so that our children stay curious, confident and eager to learn, in a safe and stimulating environment. Many of us found this anchor at Marin Waldorf School, where we see the core principles of Waldorf education--creativity, imagination, and hands-on learning--come to life in ways that deeply engage our children. In the middle grades, and especially in the fifth grade, where our children are at the moment, academic subjects aren't just presented as information to memorize but are woven into storytelling, art, and practical activities that make learning feel alive. History, geography, science, and the arts connect in meaningful ways, allowing students to experience subjects as part of a larger, immersive journey. Lessons are further enriched with frequent trips to diverse places that put learning into a concrete, real-world context--whether visiting the Egyptian Museum to deepen their understanding of ancient civilizations, attending a performance at a symphony hall to experience music firsthand, exploring a nature preserve to study ecosystems, or working on a local farm to connect with the rhythms of the land. Equally important is the continuity of the teacher-student relationship. Our children stay with the same teacher and classmates through the grades, creating a cohesive, supportive, and familiar environment. Their teacher is highly experienced and genuinely invested in each child, and the students have a deep abiding respect for him. This foundation of trust and admiration makes them feel both challenged and supported, helping them grow and engage with learning in a way that is stimulating, joyful, and truly meaningful. As parents, we deeply appreciate that our children are not only developing a love of learning but doing so in a close-knit, nurturing environment. The sense of community within our class extends beyond the students--it includes parents and faculty as well. This shared connection makes the experience all the more enriching, creating a space where our children feel seen, supported, and inspired every day. We invite other families who share these values to learn more about our class and the unique experience of a Waldorf education. If you are considering Marin Waldorf School for your child, we would love to connect and share more about our journey. Fifth Grade Parents, Class of 2028, Marin Waldorf School read more

My family has been a part of this school for years. I have a hard time explaining just how happy we are. Currently, we have a boy in the second grade. We started as young as possible and have plans to stay until the end, 8th grade. My wife is heavily involved as a volunteer. This choice has been extremely positive in many many ways. She went to private schools, I didn't. I would do it all over again and again!! Thank you for being you! read more

my children attended this school for a short period but we pulled them out for several reasons. The staff seem nice but they are not qualified to evaluate children who may need to be referred for services. They seem to discriminate against families and target new families who they feel may not be very "waldorfian". Majority of the kids enrolled are also enrolled in sports and after school programs and possibly exposed to media and video games. However, teachers seem to ignore those families and only target newbies. it was very stressful for our family. Save your money and find a better school! read more

Marin Waldorf has been an incredible experience for my children. We joined Marin Waldorf in preschool and my children have excelled in early childhood classes. My oldest is in kindergarten and has gained so much confidence, curiosity and eagerness to learn. The care and guidance provided by the early childhood teachers and staff is phenomenal. The teachers' guidance and care is individualized to fit my children's needs. I am amazed by the bonds that have been created and nurtured by the teachers, staff, community and students. The Marin Waldorf community is welcoming, supportive, and fun. I'm excited to see my children continue to thrive at Marin Waldorf. read more

Zero diversity and any diverse population that comes quickly leaves for good reason. Ask the admissions folks about the teacher retention rate and the student retention rate. Terrible with emotional social learning, bullying abound, administration is the most inept I have ever come across, curriculum is not progressive in any way. Covid policies are atrocious, it was an absolute nightmare. read more

Don't put your kid in this school. READ the contract. They will not give your money back if for any reason you need to take your child out. If you move, or get sick, or even die!! You still have to pay for the whole year!! read more

To accurately review Marin Waldorf School, you need to know specifically about Waldorf education. Waldorf schools are not just a regular private school. They have a educational and also lifestyle philosophy that goes with it. Waldorf schools hold tightly to core values of well-rounded learning and continues thru times of COVID. Along with all the typical subjects, Waldorf education places a high emphasis on music, dance, theater, hiking, being outdoors, class camping trips, painting, knitting, crocheting, gardening, woodworking, cooking are all very apparent in the weekly subjects. There is also a general concept of simplicity, healthy habits/eating, movement, independence/grit and strong parent community involvement. I have had my 2 boys in Waldorf education (both in Marin and San Francisco) for a total of 5 years and 2 years at a public charter school. Specifically, Marin Waldorf impressed me before COVID but more so during COVID. They were very organized with regular zoom meetings for parents during the planning stages over the summer of 2020. They listened and worked with health officials on how to open the school safely (and stay open!) and were ready to go on day 1 of the fall of 2020. No distance learning except when was mandated by the state. Outdoor classrooms were built (much by the children), handwashing stations, stable cohorts were made. When distance learning was miserable for our older son, we quickly moved into the 2nd grade with no issue. At MWS, the math was more difficult than public school and the teacher wrote problems that challenged each student. One main aspect I love about MWS is high emphasis on quality. Handwriting journals are pristine; crafts are made with soft, long lasting materials; snacks are made/baked/cooked in the classroom by the children; holidays and birthdays celebrated in a rich, memory-making way; field trips are with purpose and an extension of classroom lessons; and last but not least, high quality teachers and staff. Last week, my 3rd grade child cut grapes off vines growing in their outdoor classroom, crushed the grapes with their *washed* feet, and boiled it into grape juice to drink on Friday celebrations. I had my first experience doing this when I was 30 years old and my son gets to do it when he's 8. My kindergartner knows the days of the week based on the snack he makes and is asking me to put him in the last pickup for aftercare because he wants to stay longer. As you can tell, we really love Marin Waldorf and feel connected to the community and philosophy. My kids are eager to go to school everyday, learning is woven into activities and I'm hopeful it will build happy and content young adults. read more

My oldest child has been at Marin Waldorf since she was 3. She's 6 now. My 4 year old is starting her second year. This is more than a learning institution. This is a educational home base. Marin Waldorf is a community that supports its students by teaching them by example. In the younger grades it's all about doing. They cook. They clean. They hike. They tell stories. They are giving the children a warm place to feel safe and seen and supported. The teachers are all gentle but clear with intentions. Our family cannot imagine getting through the pandemic without Marin Waldorf! read more

This review is for the annual Marin Waldorf Children's Faire. Being extra thrifty these days is a necessity & I was very excited to see ads for this special event boasting the word FREE. The admission is free, but to play the games, watch a play, do a craft or eat, you must pay & it's not cheap ($1 per ticket & some games took 5, $5 apiece to view the play- even for toddlers- & $2 starting with baked goods on up for real meal items & good ones like a Mediterranean platter, BBQ items, Fairfax Scoop ice cream. I'd love to see them charge a small fee for admission to screen to make sure it's families entering. (I'm a worry wart about this type of thing.) Though maybe they'll consider charging admission in exchange for a free ticket to view the play or play a game next year. (Anyone on the planning committee for this Faire reading?) This is a truly magical occasion. The games are not boring, run-of-the-mill knock over milk bottle booths. They are exciting for the kids (& looming adults) in title alone: The Sleeping Giant (steal the sleeping giant's chicken & win a golden egg), King's Quest (wear armour & run an obstacle course to be knighted by the queen & receive a medallion from the king), Mermaid's Pool (catch a fish & receive a treasure from a mermaid), Dragon's Maze, make a candle, sachets, decorate a gingerbread person... Pretty magical, right? The setting is in the woods of the school's campus & murals painted on sheets hung in the trees. It was the type of day that made us think we just might see a unicorn. The kids that go to this school all seemed really fun. The fifth graders who played music for the play rocked their special wooden instruments better than most adults could. Any kid who attends this school is definitely fortunate. There were also vendors with great items like recycled/upcycled sweaters, hats, wooden toys & more. I need to start saving my pennies for next year right now. read more

See all

Im not a person who reviews things at all on yelp but for some reason decided to do this because without having gone to this school I'd probably be a very different person right now. I'm currently in my late twenties, and attended Marin Waldorf school 1st through 5th grade. I would love to send my kids here some day if I end up in the bay area. I attribute all of my creativity, openness and confidence in myself to this curriculum, and I'm so grateful now that my parents pulled me out of the public school system to attend. I learned to embrace individuality at a young age, and that will always stick with me. Send your kids here; those formative years spent exploring their own personalities will have a huge impact on their stability and happiness later in life. Also it was really fun, nothing but happy memories here. read more

After touring this school for my son's Kindergarten in 2014 it was clear to me that this should have been my school when I was little. Set in beautiful surroundings with a magic forest, fields to play and run in it's a wonderful place that will take you back into your own childhood. There is no stress and the atmosphere is therapeutic. It's wonderful to see my son being so happy to learn and excited every day to go to class. It doesn't matter if it's Mandarin, Spanish or Music, Writing etc. he is like a sponge. With teachers that are committed, loving and dedicated. If you are into a slower pace school that encourages the imagination and innovation in your child than you should check it out. I'm glad I did read more

We could not be happier at this school. We sort of stumbled into the kindergarten as a childcare situation when our son was 4 and it has been an ever deepening appreciation ever since. The strong emphasis on the basics in the early childhood years such as wholesome food, plenty of sleep, and outdoor play really resonated with me and our child certainly benefited. His kindergarten teacher had a deep apprection and love for him. Now that our son is in the first grade, it is incredibly exciting to watch the amount of knowledge our teacher brings to her class. It's the Waldorf way to wait until just the right developmental time to introduce subject matter, and watching this in practice is beautiful indeed. Our sons mind is truly blossoming. Our teacher has her eye and heart on every aspect of our sons education and development. We are very very happy here. As the grades progress there is a great emphasis on academics, while always keeping a child's spiritual well being front and center. We have also had a wonderful experience with the parent community and are close friends with all the parents of my child's classmates. If you are at all interested in this school, watch the short film on YouTube titled "Why Waldorf" (it was filmed at our school) and schedule a visit. read more

Amazing school and community. My son wakes up excited to go to school every morning and is excited to learn. It's great to hear him speaking Mandarin and Spanish as well as how much he loves learning math and writing. read more

Wonderful school, where children find learning fun, encourages creativity and personal responsibility and growth.

4 years in and we couldn't be happier with every aspect of Marin Waldorf. My son has truly blossomed and thrived here and loves going to school every day. The teachers, staff, campus, and philosophy are all truly exceptional and have perfectly seen, supported, and enriched my son at every stage of development. His preschool and kindergarten experiences have been wonderfully nurturing, magical, low stress, imaginative, and joyful. As he approaches 1st grade I am appreciating the incredible thoughtfulness and skill with which his teachers are preparing him with just the right amount of stretch. I am continually amazed at the level of intention, thought, experience, research, and skill with which the Waldorf curriculum is implemented here. With 50 years of experience and a deep commitment to self reflection and adapting to the current needs of students, Marin Waldorf truly is the gold standard of Waldorf education. I feel very confident that this education is providing my son with not only all the intellectual development and skills to allow him to be successful academically, but also to be a full human being. read more

Waldorf education is the fastest growing educational model in the country for a reason. These guys insulate the young kids from social media stress, and they modulate homework to keep the kids sane. A wonderful experience that creates wonderfully successful young adults. read more

As a health practitioner specializing in child and adolescent development, I have not come across a more developmentally therapeutic or strengthening approach to learning than Waldorf education. I am so more impressed by the quality of teaching and academics at Marin Waldorf School. The graduates I have known from MWS are performing academically beyond their peers and thriving in all kinds of high schools across Marin county, where teachers consistently notice how the Waldorf grads coming in have many advantages. The approach to developing highly adaptable, critical thinkers and problem solvers also has immediate benefits in the early years: happier, less stressed kids who are given the opportunity to have a childhood. read more