We warmly welcome you to the new school year! The faculty and staff have full hearts as we greet the students, new and returning. After a quiet summer on campus, we are grateful for the laughter and chatter of the children.

On Wednesday, the first grade students crossed the rainbow bridge, shook hands with their teacher, Ms. Lowenberg, and were given a red rose by the 8th graders. The Rose Ceremony is a celebration that marks an important transition within our school community and serves as a bridge connecting the past and the future. The ceremony gets its name from the significance of the rose, a symbol that represents the unfolding of human potential, just as a rosebud gradually opens to reveal its uniqueness. This parallels the way in which students’ capacities develop and flourish throughout their educational journey. The ceremony encapsulates the essence of growth, emphasizing the importance of nurturing each individual’s unique qualities.

The Rose Ceremony stands as a testament to the depth of thought and intention woven into every aspect of our educational experience. Rooted in symbolism, nature, and community, this tradition not only marks an important transition in the students’ academic journey, but also brings forth the essence of growth, beauty, and interconnection. As students, teachers, and parents weave together to partake in the Rose Ceremony, they engage in a shared experience that embodies the very spirit of community in Waldorf education.

We share here a letter from our Board of Trustees and important dates for September:

Dear Waldorf School of Santa Barbara Community Members,

Welcome one and all for a new and exciting school year!

Last Wednesday, we witnessed the enchantment of education through the eyes of the incoming First Grade, as they walked across the Rainbow Bridge and received their roses from the Eighth Grade students. A longstanding Waldorf tradition that was made ever more special by our community members thanks to their enthusiasm and heart-filled connection to our mission. As one parent of a rising First grader expressed: “The ceremony and intention this school provides around the child’s maturation is very special. The children feel welcomed and seen on this new journey they are embarking on. Big steps, big feelings, well-loved and supported.” The heartfelt welcome from each teacher to their class, and gathering of all subject teachers, Early Childhood department, administration and staff, made for a warm welcome for the 2024-2025 school year.

The Waldorf School of Santa Barbara’s Board of Trustees meets monthly, and is composed of current and past school parents, faculty representatives, and school administration. We share a deep interest in the well-being of the whole school and come to the Board with a diverse set of backgrounds, interests and skills. We are the stewards of the financial and legal accountability of the school’s activities, and strive to serve our community with integrity and transparency. Our meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 3:30pm and are open to the community.

Our Back To School evening will take place on September 18th at 5pm. We encourage at least one parent to attend and learn about how our community can thrive when we work together with our hearts open. Our school’s Committees will be present, as well as faculty and Board members, and we look forward to engaging with you.

With gratitude,
The Waldorf School of Santa Barbara Board of Trustees

Welcome!