FAQS

The name “anthroposophy” combines the Greek words for “human being” and “wisdom” to mean “the wisdom of the human being,” or the wisdom that knows what it means to be human. Alternately referred to as Spiritual Science, in the words of its founder Rudolf Steiner, “… (it) is a way of knowledge—a cognitive path—that leads the spiritual in the human being to the spiritual in the universe.” As a phenomenologically-based philosophy, psychology, and science, it delineates a 3-fold picture of the human being – body, soul, and spirit, which is the basis for Waldorf educational methods.

All of our philosophical and practical studies, art courses, and discussions serve to inform, cultivate, and inspire the adult to be a role model and guide for youth.

The early childhood teacher leads as a person who knows that the child learns through imitation; the grades teacher leads via authority and imagination; the high school teacher inspires through an inspired, yet grounded idealism.

Each age level responds to a modality all it’s own out of an appropriately corresponding curriculum. Grades 1 through 8 are ideally carried by the the same teacher to promote continuity and a strong bond between the teacher and child. The middle school grades are sometimes carried and/or augmented by suitable specialist teachers. High school students are best served if taught by professional level experts in their subject areas.

Both in the lower and high school, many subjects are taught in the ‘block’ format of an intensive immersion in a single subject for a period of 3-4 weeks. However, with the onset of adolescence, subjects are increasingly isolated for in depth immersions. Sciences, humanities, history, dramatic, visual arts, etc., are treated as separate fields of study as each student begins to discover their major interests and contemplate post graduation pursuits.

Waldorf teachers are supported by administrative staff in the daily functions essential to the running of a school. However, the teachers themselves, collectively and individually, have the responsibility and authority to design the practices and policies in any and all aspects of the pedagogy. It is in this way that Waldorf Schools are self governing and ideally free of all outside dictates and state or federal requirements. Though each school establishes it’s own structure for committee work, mandates, and leadership, decision making is most often carried out in a spirit of consensus.

Becoming a Waldorf teacher involves comprehensive preparation, including:
– Immersion in Anthroposophy and artistic practices
– Specialized training and certification in age-appropriate Waldorf methods
– Ongoing professional development
– A Bachelor’s degree

Above all, Waldorf teachers bring warmth and joy to the classroom, creating an environment where learning becomes a delightful journey of discovery.

At the heart of Waldorf education lies a revolutionary approach to learning. Waldorf teachers don’t simply present facts – they cultivate curiosity and wonder. Through our experiential learning methodology, students begin with direct experience and journey toward understanding, creating deeper, more lasting connections with their subjects.

A Waldorf teacher’s journey begins with personal growth. Like a gardener who must first understand the soil before nurturing plants, our educators engage in continuous self-development to better serve their students.

We embrace a collaborative leadership model where teachers actively shape the school’s direction, fostering a vibrant educational community. This shared responsibility creates an environment where innovation thrives.

Teaching with Grace and Understanding

Great Waldorf educators understand that child development follows natural rhythms. They guide each student with patience and insight, recognizing that every developmental stage – even the challenging ones – plays a vital role in growth.

The Artistry of Education

Waldorf teaching transcends traditional instruction. Each lesson is a creative endeavor, thoughtfully crafted without reliance on standard textbooks. Our educators weave artistic elements throughout their teaching, creating immersive learning experiences that engage students on multiple levels.

Waldorf Teaching: Career Outlook

With over 1,200 independent Waldorf schools worldwide, the Waldorf education sector continues to grow, offering promising opportunities for qualified educators. As these schools expand globally, particularly in the United States, trained Waldorf teachers are increasingly in demand.

Career Opportunities

Demand for Waldorf educators remains strong across grade levels and subjects. While specialized training is essential for these positions, the investment opens doors to meaningful teaching opportunities. Some regions, especially those with established Waldorf communities, may offer more extensive job prospects.

Finding Your Path

Your location and desired role can influence job availability. While some positions – particularly in early childhood education or lead teaching at established schools – may be more competitive, the overall growth in Waldorf education creates ongoing opportunities for dedicated educators.

This expanding educational movement welcomes passionate teachers ready to embrace its unique approach to child development and learning. Whether you’re considering a career transition or starting your teaching journey, Waldorf education offers a distinctive path in modern education.

To get an idea of current available job openings, take a look at AWSNA’s Waldorf Job Openings page.

The Alkion Center’s Waldorf Teacher Education Program is a two-year, part-time certification program recognized by AWSNA and WECAN. The curriculum combines Foundation Studies in Anthroposophy with intensive artistic practice and teacher preparation.

Year I focuses on Rudolf Steiner’s foundational work and contemplative development, while introducing core teaching principles. Year II delves deeply into teaching methodology, with specialization tracks in Early Childhood or Lower School (grades 1-8). Both paths explore child development through a comprehensive curriculum including eurythmy, music, visual arts, movement, and drama.

While primarily focused on grades 1-8, our program provides valuable foundations for high school teachers through its anthroposophical studies and artistic training. High school teaching candidates are encouraged to supplement their training with specialized upper grades research and classroom experience.

Graduation requirements include:

• Completion of academic and artistic coursework
• Six weeks of classroom observation
• Six weeks of practice teaching at accredited Waldorf schools
• Independent research paper

Our program prepares graduates for positions in Waldorf schools and similar educational settings. Most established Waldorf schools require both a bachelor’s degree and certification from an accredited Waldorf Teacher Education program.

The program’s success relies heavily on students’ independent initiative and dedication to personal development through self-directed study.

Upon successful completion of The Alkion Center’s Waldorf Teacher Education program, students will receive either a Teacher Education or Early Childhood Certificate. The course of study and subsequent certification prepares graduates for employment in a Waldorf School or settings that use Waldorf practices.

Please note that most established Waldorf schools require their teachers to have both a Bachelor’s degree from a certified College or University and a Certificate from an accredited Waldorf Teacher Education program such as the Alkion Center.

Alkion Center is licensed under the New York State Department of Education within The Bureau of Proprietary School Supervision (BPSS). BPSS oversees and monitors non-degree granting proprietary schools in New York State. The Bureau is responsible for ensuring that the overall educational quality of the programs offered will provide students with the necessary skills to se-cure meaningful employment and for protecting students’ financial interests while attending proprietary schools. BPSS licenses/registers proprietary schools and credentials proprietary school teachers to ensure that appropriate standards are met. The Bureau investigates student complaints and conducts comprehensive investigations of schools to assure compliance with Education Law and Commissioner’s Regulations.

Alkion Center is an associate member of the Teacher Education Delegates Circle (TEDC) of the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA), and an associate member of the Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America (WECAN).

AWSNA was founded in 1968 to assist Waldorf schools and institutes in working together to nurture Waldorf Education so that it can manifest more widely in the world. AWSNA provides leadership to schools by facilitating resources, networks and research as they strive towards excellence and build healthy school communities.

WECAN was founded in 1983. Membership is open to early childhood programs, kindergartens, child care centers, home programs, and teacher training centers committed to the ideals and practices of Waldorf early childhood education, and to individuals who wish to support and contribute to Waldorf early childhood education in North America.

Here is a brief summary of available aid types. To learn more, please consult the Alkion Course catalog, found at this link.

Alkion Center Scholarships

1. • $450 internal scholarship from fundraising efforts
   • Available to all enrolled students who request assistance
   • Must be indicated on enrollment agreement
2. AWSNA (Association of Waldorf Schools of North America) Support
   • $900 standard loan
   • Additional discretionary funds may be available
   • Loan converts to grant if working ¾+ time at AWSNA-affiliated school within 2 years of graduation
   • Currently Practicing Teacher (CPT) Grant: $750 for active Waldorf teachers
     • Schools encouraged to match or exceed this amount
   • Application deadline: August 25th
   • Process:
     • Links provided upon acceptance
     • Applications reviewed by Alkion
     • DocuSign contract sent directly from AWSNA
     • Funds applied directly to tuition
3. School-Specific Aid
   • Hawthorne Valley Waldorf School teachers: Eligible for Bulova/Gale Foundation scholarship
   • Other Waldorf schools: May offer matching funds for AWSNA grants
4. Diversity Support
   • Enska Diversity Scholarship available
   • Requires application letter to Enrollment Agent

Important Notes

• Financial aid must be requested on initial contract
• Aid amounts confirmed after program acceptance
• Preliminary estimates available based on need and fund availability

The Alkion Center is located in Ghent, NY, just 2 hours north of NYC, in a small rural hamlet called Harlemville. Hudson, NY, is the largest nearby city, and is known as a travel destination with world-class restaurants, antique dealers, boutique shops, and entertainment venues. The charming Village of Chatham is about 15 minutes north of Hawthorne Valley and offers boutique shopping, eateries, a movie theater and bookstore and more.

There are a variety of housing options in the area. Many families from the Hawthorne Valley community rent out guest rooms in their homes to visitors who come to participate in programs, courses, and workshops. “Home Stay” accommodations vary, but are conveniently located, some within walking distance of campus and are economical. All arrangements are made directly between the homeowner and guests. Camping is limited locally and not allowed on Hawthorne Valley property. Links to area accommodations and childcare options are here.

While we don’t generally conduct in-person interviews or tours, Hawthorne Valley is an open campus and visitors are warmly welcomed. Hawthorne Valley Farm Store is open 7 days, from 7:30 am-7:00 pm, and offers prepared foods and outdoor picnicking. Guided tours of the farm, school, or both are available upon request (Monday-Friday), and there are self-guided tour brochures available in the Farm Store for those wishing to just take a look around on their own.