Waldorf Elementary Grades 1–5 Near Auburn

Live Oak’s Waldorf Elementary program near Auburn serves children in Grades 1–5 through a rich blend of academics, arts, movement, practical work, and meaningful real-world experience. In these early grades, students’ imaginations are strong and their intellectual capacities are blossoming, so subject areas are introduced through experiential and artistic means.

Request more information and we’ll send you details about our Elementary program, share general information, help you schedule a tour or visit, and answer any questions you may have.

The curriculum in the elementary years presents the history of humanity as it coincides with the development of the child, meeting each student at the right time and in the right place of his or her development. Every child, beginning in 1st grade, starts the morning with a two-hour Main Lesson block in math, language arts, science, and literature.

In addition, every student participates in Spanish, music, fine art, practical arts, handwork, eurythmy, movement and games, and drama. With age-appropriate movement exercises, imaginative games, and precise skill development, children strengthen their senses, meet developmental and social challenges, and practice working with peers in a wide range of roles.

Request Elementary Information Visit & Tours Tuition & Fees

Call: (530) 878-8720
Email: admissions@liveoakwaldorf.org

Private Elementary School Near Auburn

Families looking for a private elementary school near Auburn will find a distinctive Waldorf approach at Live Oak. Our Grades 1–5 program combines strong academics with artistic depth, movement, practical skills, outdoor experience, and developmentally appropriate teaching that speaks to the whole child.

A Waldorf Elementary Education That Meets the Child

The heart of the Waldorf method is that education is an art. To educate the whole child, heart and will must be reached as well as the intellect. In the elementary years, students encounter each subject through stories, movement, artistic work, practical experience, and carefully sequenced academic lessons that match their stage of development.

A Typical Day in 2nd Grade

After school care also available.

Educational Field Trips in Grades 1–5

Field trips are an integral part of the educational experience at Live Oak Waldorf School. First and second graders may take several short day trips that correspond to aspects of the curriculum. Beginning in third grade, classes take overnight field trips that allow students to become fully immersed in direct observation and participation in curriculum-related topics.

Our location in the Sierra Foothills near Auburn provides an abundance of opportunities to experience lessons directly through historically and geographically meaningful local destinations. Class teachers plan the experiences they feel best support their classes and lessons, and parents play vital roles as chaperones and organizers.

Example Trips by Grade

Crafts Program in 4th and 5th Grade

Fourth and fifth grade students begin their craft studies with blacksmithing and woodworking. Blacksmithing begins in fourth grade with the building of a forge, followed by woodworking. In fifth grade, the year begins with woodland management: taking responsibility for what is around them and participating as co-creators. The second half returns to woodworking.

Waldorf Curriculum for Grades 1–5

Elementary Grades 1–5 FAQ

What does a typical day look like in the elementary grades?
Students begin the day with a two-hour Main Lesson block focused on core academic subjects such as math, language arts, science, and literature. The rest of the day includes Spanish, music, art, handwork, movement, and other specialty classes.

What subjects are included in Grades 1–5?
In addition to core academics, students take Spanish, music, fine art, practical art, handwork, eurythmy, movement and games, and drama.

Are field trips part of the elementary program?
Yes. Field trips are an integral part of the educational experience. First and second graders may take shorter day trips, and beginning in third grade, classes take overnight trips connected to the curriculum.

How does the curriculum change from grade to grade?
The curriculum is designed to meet the child at each stage of development. Each grade level builds on the one before it, with academic, artistic, and experiential work introduced in developmentally appropriate ways.

Is after school care available?
Yes. After school care is available.