A rigorous, arts-rich education that meets adolescents where they are: intellectually curious, socially developing, and ready for real challenge.
Students don't just learn scientific laws - they discover them. Through their own experiments and observations, they develop the critical thinking skills that prepare them for high school and beyond.
The middle school years bring profound changes. Students begin to question, to seek fairness, to develop their own judgments about the world. Our curriculum is intentionally designed to meet these developmental needs.
Beginning in sixth grade, the emphasis shifts toward critical reasoning, accurate observation, and the development of individual judgment. Students don't just learn facts. They learn to think. They conduct their own scientific experiments before learning laws and principles. They debate ideas, evaluate evidence, and form their own conclusions.
Students discover history through class plays. Illustrated Main Lesson books allow them to artistically express and digest what is learned in class. Woodworking builds deep focus, geometry skills, and complex problem-solving skills. These are just a few examples of how arts remain central and complement deep learning.
Students create illustrated Main Lesson books, perform annual plays including Shakespeare, and participate in both chorus and instrumental ensemble.
Learning feels meaningful and connected to the world around them.
With 11-15 students per class and teachers who know them over multiple years, every middle schooler is seen as an individual.
Your child is seen, supported, and guided - not managed or standardized.
No smartphones during school. Students learn focus, have real conversations, and navigate social dynamics face-to-face.
Your child develops focus, resilience, and confidence.
Our signature trips bring curriculum alive: Medieval Games in 6th grade, a Quebec City French scavenger hunt in 7th grade, and a student-planned culminating trip in 8th grade.
Students carry these experiences with them for life.
A highlight of our lower and middle school language program is an immersive cultural trip to Montreal and Quebec City for a week, including an extensive scavenger hunt -- exclusively in French -- in small self-led groups among landmarks and experiences in Old Quebec. Each eighth grade class marks their eight years together with a class trip. Past trips have ranged from paddling the Battenkill to touring Boston.
No smartphones during school. Students learn to focus deeply, have real conversations, and navigate social dynamics face-to-face. In an era of digital distraction, we protect genuine connection.
Waldorf graduates consistently report feeling well-prepared. The study habits, public speaking confidence, and deep thinking skills they develop serve them well. Many say high school feels less challenging than expected.
We teach for understanding rather than test performance. That said, Waldorf students consistently perform at or above national averages on standardized assessments.
Yes - meaningful homework that increases through middle school. Finishing Main Lesson books, preparing presentations, practicing instruments, working on projects.
Our small classes and long-term teacher relationships allow us to know each learner's needs and adapt accordingly.
The best way to understand what makes Waldorf Middle School distinctive is to visit our campus, observe a classroom, and talk with teachers and current families.
Contact Admissions
Email: admissions@waldorfsaratoga.org
Phone: (518) 587-0549
Waldorf Middle School is located at our Lower School campus. Students in grades 6-8 learn alongside Early Grades students, maintaining connections with younger children while preparing for high school transition.
Where the foundation begins. Play-based learning, nature immersion, and the warmth of consistent caregivers prepare children for the journey ahead.
Learn MoreWhere learning comes alive. Teacher looping, arts-integrated curriculum, and hands-on experiences build deep understanding and love of learning.
Learn More