Mission 

El Rio is a community-based school located in the culturally rich area of Northeast LA that is guided by the core principles of Public Waldorf Education through the lens of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. 

We seek to cultivate a relationship-based school culture that supports joyful, collaborative learning and leadership. Students’ curiosity and imagination are fostered through an arts-integrated, culturally responsive and developmentally appropriate curriculum. By engaging children’s heads, hearts and hands, we strive to develop free-thinking individuals with respect for themselves, their community, and the planet. 

Vision

El Rio is actively committed to using a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging lens to examine traditional Waldorf practices. 

We are dedicated to creating a school culture and curriculum that honors and reflects our community. 

Within this community, we seek to nurture children in their strengths while fostering a growth mindset and the ability to work through challenges. 

Using experiential learning and an arts-infused curriculum, we strive to instill in our students a sense of reverence and responsibility for all life on earth and a deep understanding of our interconnectedness as global citizens. 

We are focused on graduating lifelong learners and innovative, compassionate human beings who lead their lives and communities with purpose and integrity. 

Values

● Tailoring the practices of public Waldorf education to serve our specific community and place 

● Active engagement in the ongoing work of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

● Cultivating deep ties to the local community 

● Fostering an environment of open communication and collaboration

● Honoring childhood and centering students’ intellectual, social-emotional, and physical well-being 

● Holding space for input from teachers and staff in decision-making 

● Stewardship of both our local and global environments