Orcaschool's curriculum is inspired by the teachings of Rudolph Steiner, founder of the Waldorf Schools. The teachers carefully weave together academics and the arts. Community service projects and social responsibility are an essential ingredient in our learning process. Outdoor education and recreation are integrated into the curriculum to provide a living landscape for learning. We aim to create a joyful educational community that strives for kindness, cultural renewal and is grounded with integrity. Our intention is to nurture our families and ourselves, strengthen our school and influence our community through peaceful, powerful relationships.

Orcaschool cultivates an environment where the whole world may be seen with a fresh mind. This could translate into learning about Egypt by constructing a pyramid on the beach, complete with geometric definitions and precise measurements, or experiencing how to paddle a kayak safely through the shorebreak; it might involve a detailed study and hands-on effort in cleaning up our local creeks combined with active biology, botany, and environmental science.

Santa Barbara presents an abundance of educational opportunities in the cultural realm as well as the great outdoors. Our children’s natural enthusiasm for learning makes it possible to weave together a colorful tapestry of guided discoveries! Weekly field trips which integrate these opportunities form a central part of our curriculum.

Our environment of small cooperative groups brings the teacher and child together in a special relationship that allows the teacher to gain a deeper sense of who the child is as a person today, and who the child may become as an adult.

A solid academic curriculum combined with outdoor education supports the growth of students in personal and individual ways, and stimulates a lifelong love of learning.