As a tai chi instructor, I gave an introduction class to the wonderful of Maple Village, Waldorf school who very thoughtful and appreciative of the art presented. It's great to see a teaching establishment provide the artistic world to students who have a thirst for all art forms. Dav-Ekon, the Art of Tai Chi read more

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We are starting our sixth year at Maple Village Waldorf School, and with the first day of school today, I am reminded of just how grateful we are for this community. Over the past five years, our children have been met with love, patience, and a true dedication to their growth. The teachers and staff are among the most devoted educators I have ever seen. They don't just teach--they nurture, guide, and partner with parents in the most thoughtful way. Their holistic approach meets kids exactly where they are, helping them not only to learn but to love learning. What I appreciate most is how much the school truly cares about the kids as whole human beings. It's more than academics--it's about building confidence, fostering creativity, and cultivating empathy. If you are looking for a school where your child will be seen, valued, and supported in every way, Maple Village Waldorf School is a rare gem. We feel incredibly lucky to be part of this community. read more

We've been parents/volunteers at this school since its early beginnings. Our oldest daughter's parent/toddler class was taught by the wonderful, now Head of School, Lisa McCarthy. She continued through preschool and kindergarten and then grades 1st - 8th and graduated last year. Our 2nd child has followed the same path and will continue through 8th grade as well. Throughout the years we've seen our children grow to become mature, caring, compassionate, confident, accepting, and just wonderful human beings, and I credit a large portion of it to the environment at Maple Village Waldorf School! When I compare Waldorf kids to others, there is a clear difference between them. Kids spend the majority of their day in school and it was very important to us where our kids spent that time and with whom. We've had wonderful teachers and have met wonderful parents who have become like family. I wouldn't change that for any other school (public or private). The school is run by individuals who are compassionate about the mission of Waldorf education and what it has to offer. Waldorf education is not a typical education and is NOT for everyone, I will admit. It's something you have to embrace as a family for the child to gain the full benefit of the curriculum and approach to child development. DO NOT listen or be swayed by the negative comments because they represent a very small number of disgruntled former parents who didn't get what they wanted or didn't really understand what Waldorf education is/was. I can guarantee they do not invest time to really appreciate what Waldorf (and Maple Village) has to offer. MVWS (Waldorf Ed in general) doesn't perform miracles! Children are still going to be children and push boundaries. That's their job. But the teachers and staff also have a job to hold boundaries for the benefit of the child and the rest of the kids in the class. Sometimes, parents have a hard time with that. I know some of these former parents and they're leaving out MANY important details! The bottom line is that we have ZERO regrets sending our children here and would do it again in a heartbeat. Our only wish is that Maple Village would offer a high school program because we'd be there for that, too. read more

We've been part of the Maple Village Waldorf School community for 6 years now, and I can honestly say it's been a gift for our family. Both of my kids have thrived here--academically, socially, and creatively. The teachers truly see each child as an individual and nurture them in ways that go far beyond just academics. What stands out most is the balance between strong academics and the emphasis on imagination, nature, and hands-on learning. My kids come home not only knowing how to solve math problems and write essays, but also with a love for art, music, and outdoor exploration. The school environment fosters curiosity, confidence, and kindness--things that matter just as much as test scores. The community is also a huge part of why we've stayed so long. Families and teachers alike are warm, supportive, and genuinely invested in creating a positive environment for the children. Events, festivals, and parent involvement make it feel like an extended family, not just a school. After 6 years, we still feel so grateful to be here and look forward to many more. If you're looking for a place where your child can grow into a thoughtful, well-rounded human being, this school is a wonderful choice. read more

This school has been such a magical place for my little one. They provide such a warm environment for the children and staff. They really care about the students and their education and truly feel like an extension of home and what we are looking to provide our child. read more

My little one has been at MV since he was 1. We love MV and our community here. This school is all about the magic of children, love and creativity. read more

Maple Village Waldorf School - Elementary Schools Near Me - Long Beach, California

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This is my personal experience at this school. MVWS drew me in because I loved the creative/hands on/visual learning that waldorf offers. My son is a visual learner and he was thriving when coming here from a public school. Everyone also seemed very warm and inviting... and honestly things were good, until they weren't. My child was here for 4 years and had the same teacher all of these years. The last year he was here , his needs changed because of the dynamic in the classroom. He started having severe anxiety and school refusal. His tics increased. He started to get very overstimulated and overwhelmed. He started to get triggered to have meltdowns. He started refusing to do things at school that he use to do. "Kids do well if they can" instead of looking at the behavior, you have to look at the root. Behavior is also communication, especially in autistic children. When I started to advocate for my child; that's when I noticed the shift. When my child started advocating for himself, things got even worse. I was met with pushback and I was made to feel like I was the problem. If a school wants to be inclusive; please listen to autistic voices/children with disabilities and their parents who are desperately trying to help them. My son would come home crying multiple times a week, asking me "what is wrong with me?" His self esteem was at an all time low and he felt broken. What he was describing to me was that he was made to feel invalidated, he did not feel heard. Which is exactly how I felt as well. This school ended up causing me and my child so much trauma. This was the most difficult time in our lives that I've ever had to go through with him. read more

Best thing I can tell an anyone about this school is the kids that go here are more sociable. Love it! read more

Maple Village has been home to our family for many years, I say home because Maple Village is more than a school. Maple Village is an incredible educational institution as well as an incredible community to be part of. My child thrives, both academically and socially here, her love of learning is insatiable, and I credit this to the type of academic and social emotional support that she's received in this community and her exceptional teacher. If you are looking for an organization, that deeply cares for children at an emotional level and deeply cares for growing a child's love of learning; I highly recommend that you consider visiting Maple Village Waldorf School. read more

Some facts: -School has no AC. -no real play area. In fact kids can be seen playing in the alley way. -organization is NOT their strong suit (type A folks, steer clear ) -you have devote a lot of your time AND pay a lot of money -kiddos can't wear anything Disney/loud. -for preschool, you have to bring fruit/veggies every Wednesday for the kids to chop up -teachers and staff are pleasant and have good intentions but they do not want your wild ones. They want your calm ones. *read that again* - if one kid in the class has a food allergy the ENTIRE class will be asked not to pack that kind of food in their own lunch. I'm not going to write a comparison piece between our experience at this place and the place my son is currently at. But folks that are perusing preschools, just make sure you do your research and find something that suits YOUR kid and don't just choose something because the word "Waldorf" is in it. read more

Our child has been a student here for six years. We could not be more pleased with the education he has gotten. Not only does a Waldorf education focus on teaching children how to learn and become critical thinkers (as opposed to rote memorization of facts and figures) but it also focuses deeply on holistic learning which includes every part of the child, with speciality lessons in art, music, crafting, languages and more. My son's teacher is one of the best teachers I have ever come across, and she has treated my child like a member of her own family. If you have a child that has faced challenges with public education because they don't quite fit in, or you don't feel that they are being treated as an individual, this is a wonderful alternative. And nobody is turned away because they cannot afford tuition. Oh also - they encourage students to avoid screens and as a result, the kids interact with one another and in general remain free from the stress of social media, youtube and the like, which is a huge bonus in my opinion. Also: I find that the group of parents who have kids here are really great and welcoming and inviting. Also: in regards to the criticisms on here about the play area - the kids use creativity and ingenuity to utilize a perfectly good play area, and they spend one full day per week almost completely outdoors at the park. I used to walk by the school and wonder about the small play area but I also walk by the public school and see many kids huddled in a corner not even using what they have. Every school will have its pros and cons, for me this school has an enormous amount of pros that make it really unique and fantastic. read more

I love this school with every fiber of my being. My only regret was that we didn't start our kids at Maple Village sooner. I knew my boys were not public school kids, but it wasn't until we enrolled them here that I realized how much a school can truly help children become the best versions of themselves. When they arrived they were both struggling, had not found a love for learning in school, and when they graduated 8th grade they were new versions of their former selves, both confident & giving over 20 minutes presentations with ease on their favorite topics to the whole school. Being supported & encouraged in the best possible way possible their school life turned into one they now loved as much as their home life. Before Waldorf they were being bullied & alienated by their peers & after they have dreams again that they are actively trying to make happen. As parents we feel so luckily we found this gem of a school as it has changed our boys lives forever! read more

Our family has been a part of the Maple Village community since 2013, when we first toured the school for our prospective kindergartener. That kindergartener has now gone through every grade at the school and has moved on to high school. We are so glad we kept our child at Maple Village. The faculty and staff genuinely care about each student and family. They take the time to get to know each child as an individual. Our high school aged child was able to graduate from Maple Village and enter high school in advanced classes in English, math and Spanish. He has a solid sense of himself and his values. This is a great school and I cannot recommend it enough for any parents considering the Parent-tot, Preschool, Kindergarten, or Grades programs up to 8th grade. Note that for working (or busy) parents, morning and after-school care is available. read more

I'm a mother of two who are currently enrolled at Maple Village Waldorf School (2024) we switched to MVWS in October 2021 and plan on being here through our youngests 8th grade year (2032) It's a 8+ year comment for our family and we're happy to make it since we feel like this school has been an amazing change and experience for the whole family. We are happy to be here, to be involved, and look forward to continuing our journey here. When my family enrolled at MVWS we need something better than where we were. We recognized that our 6 year old's public school was not the place for her and needed to find a solution. Honestly I had no clue what Waldorf education was. The first time I read the name "Maple Village Waldorf School" I instantly thought of the fancy hotel and old money family. Then I visited the website, saw high school graduate stats and Ivy League colleges vying to enroll these Waldorf student graduates and thought why not give it a try. As we adapted our first school year, our "quick fix" became more, the building blocks clicked into place, our child began to shine, the why's of this education started to be answered for us, and most importantly Maple Village became not an institution for education but a second home for our family. Now many years in with both daughters enrolled in this special place, our daughters and their classmates are being held with firm but gentle hands of not only their main teacher but all of the faculty and staff of the school. Parent education and meetings have helped us gain tools and understanding to this education and our children that we didn't even know we needed. Our family has grown together and we feel like we have become better parents and our best selves thanks to Maple Village and it's community. I am so thankful for the rough trial we had starting our eldest daughter's education without it we would have never given MVWS a chance and we would have missed out immensely on all that it has gifted us. I recently asked my Daughters (6 and 9 years old) what do they like about their school. My 9 year old says she likes her day, from being inside to outside, coming inside to do handwork, "it's relaxing" then going to games, being outside and challenged. It's well balanced for her and she enjoys it. My rising first grader said she liked playing (in kindergarten) inside and outside and having the choice to do what she wants. She liked the freedom to be herself. This after all in a Waldorf education is exactly what Kindergarten is meant to be, a time for the children to separate from home and discover themselves outside of being with their family. The positive experience she had in kinder set a solid foundation for your education experience. Hearing both my girls share about their days throughout the school year was always a treat, even when a challenge arose they had support and guidance from teachers and friends and even if it didn't always seem the best of days it always turned to something positive, because they both had the loving space to grow. Maple Village is an urban school, it's relatively small, but it has heart. The community of parents, teachers, and staff is amazing. Waldorf education is beautiful, however it does require a bridge from home to school and parents do need to communicate to the class teacher to maintain this metaphoric bridge. I highly recommend you check out some books on Waldorf Education to make sure it fits your child's needs. We are thankful everyday for our decision to take a leap and transfer to Maple Village, we are excited to witness our children and their classes grow and become their best selves. read more

It's hard to put into words just how magical this sweet school is. My nearly 4 year old has been attending early childhood classes (Me and My Baby, Parent Toddler, and now preschool) here since she was 7 months old. The campus is so cozy and homey feeling, but that's nothing compared to the people who work here. Educating children is truly their passion and they love the children and families involved with the school. It feels like one big family. My daughter talks about preschool every day, even though it's been out for the summer for two weeks. In preschool they knead bread with their own hands on Thursdays and then eat that bread for their snack, they grow strawberries from seeds, they have the sweetest little nature walks...and that is just a snippet. I've noticed changes with my daughter at home too. She is singing all of the time (this is what they do often at school, especially during transition periods), her pretend play has really blossomed, and she is so proud of the things she accomplished in preschool and can now do at home (like sewing a bean bag with " a real needle"). The moms that were in the Me and My Baby class with me 3 years ago are some of my best friends. If you are a mom with a new baby looking for your people, I highly suggest this class! The parent toddler class is completely magical. Stories, group snack, open ended play with the sweetest toys, crafts, and adult conversation while the children play...it was always the highlight of our week. Children learn by doing here. As a parent, you have to trust the process, and the result is a deep thinking and kind child who wants to understand everything rather than just memorize it. read more

Maple Village Waldorf School - This hangs in the preschool area and just gives an idea of the cozy vibe. - Elementary Schools Near Me - Long Beach, California

If you're a minority DO NOT send your kids here. Against my better judgement I gave this school a chance and it was a huge mistake. His teacher was old and lethargic. She seemed to ignore the kids so she can take rest breaks. By his second week there my son started to say things like, " I just don't like it there" or "the kids aren't very nice there." I brushed it off as just normal kid stuff till he came home one day and told me 2 white kids had punched him because he was playing on "their" swing. My wife and I were furious that we heard this from him and not his teachers or the staff. We called a meeting with his teachers and administrators and they immediately when into talking about how they try so hard to get more minority enrollment, the teacher was blaming my child for getting hit in the face, etc etc. They charge WAY more than most other private schools just so the kids can "learn through play" You'll be paying over $1,000 a month just so your kids can play with blocks and make oatmeal. Do yourself and your family a favor and find another school. I sincerely hope this helps you. read more

During our initial entrance interview, the teacher proposed that we take our child to school on a trial basis for assessment. On first day of school, the teacher and some parents were talking about being tired due to daylight saving. Out of no where, the teacher asked me,"Do they have daylight saving in China?" I replied," I don't know." Teacher asked," Aren't you from China?" I was shocked by her ignorance but since she's a teacher, I gave her benefit of the doubt and that she did not intent to belittle and/or make us feel othered on first day of school. On our last day there, my child had a hard time saying bye to me at drop-off in the morning and refused to let go of my hand. The teacher told me she would give us 5 min and if he doesn't go in, I should take him home. I understand her concerns and agreed. It's best that I take my child home if he is scared of her or not comfortable there. The 5 min count down made me anxious but it was what she said next that pushed us away. She mentioned my 5 year old son doesn't speak english and that he may not understand instructions. I reminded her that he does because my husband and I both speak english at home but we made the decision to only speak mandarin to him as we don't think 5 year olds would have any problem learning English. After that, she suggested that I take him to "Chinese groups" to socialize. Her remarks about us joining some "Chinese group" and assumptions about me is something I never expected from a kindergarten teacher. After spending a few days trying to process our experience, I made the decision to speak up and share our story with the community& school. Even though I felt validated and heard after talking to the Dean, the teacher's excuse is that she was trying to be helpful, meant no harm...which are all predictable answers. Sometimes your mean no harm comments will hurt people the most, especially for culturally marginalized groups. Edit: We started at a new school the following week. When I spoke to the new teacher on day 2 about my son not being able to speak english, she told me twice that my son "speaks well". On 3rd day of school, my son waved goodbye, walked into class by himself and did not look back. Turns out there's nothing wrong with our child. We just needed a teacher who would accept him for who he is. As for the teacher at maple village, she still works there as a kindergarten teacher after I reported the incident to the school. read more

My child had attended public school since TK; however, after having had a tough time emotionally in 7th grade, we were looking for something smaller and more supportive. At the time of applying and enrolling, my son was still recovering from mental health issues and was identifying as transgender and with a different name than before. This school was very supportive and welcoming. They allowed him the space he needed to come into his own and figure out who he was. Overall, my son flourished at this school. The support, emotionally, socially and academically, was amazing. They provided so many opportunities for growth. Although his younger brother was doing well in all areas, he saw how amazing the school was and now is excited to go there for 7th and 8th grade. I am so glad we can give this gift to our children. I also had the chance to get to know all the kids in the graduating class last year. They all loved their experiences at MVW and their graduation speeches brought many to tears. Some choose to go to performing arts high schools, but many are moving on to Honors track at local public schools or even schools that excel in Math and Science. I love how this school prioritizes students social and emotional health, as well as academics (which is unlike public school). read more

If I could select zero, I would. This school is like a cult. Teachers are selected based on nepotism. My daughter attended this school since Pre-K. She left 3rd grade with a less than 1st grade reading and math level. We tried to enroll her in a better private school like Westerley and they indicated they will not take any students from Maple Village Waldorf specifically. Any other Waldorf was fine. Our only option was public school. Maple Village mishandled her school records in violation of FERPA. They could not even provide grades or attendance records. I should have filed a formal complaint but the 90 days expired for the FERPA filing. One year later, our daughter is finally working at grade level. She is happy in public school and she doesn't feel bad anymore. When in Maple Village, there were SO many lice breakouts. Since public school, we have not had any issues. read more

We had the fortune of reading a blog article about the annual Harvest Faire (put on by this school) about 7 years ago, went on a tour for the Parent tot class, and instantly knew we found something special. Our son has been at Maple Village since Parent tot, and has been there ever since (just finished 1st grade). The teachers and staff treat him the same way we would treat him. With gentleness and love, giving him guidance and rhythms and routines that are appropriate for his age / development. His vocabulary is amazing and his love of learning is evident everyday, which is fostered by this method of teaching. There is a sense of magic, warmth, and community that is noticeable as soon as you step inside. As an engineer for aerospace, people always ask me if Waldorf education supports STEM if they don't utilize technology. I reply with a resounding YES! Technology and advancements come from creative out of the box thinking. Engineers and scientists that excel are ones that do more than just follow rules. They are always looking for new and better ways to do things. And at Maple Village, they don't just memorize facts and figures. They learn holistically and discover on their own - They learn math and coding skills with clapping, stomping, jumping, knitting, patterns, drawing.... no flash cards there... there is no need! They learn with their whole selves! It's worth checking out - even if it's not for you, you won't know until you come by! You may be surprised and even discover a little magic along the way. read more

We have two children attending grades this year. The teachers are excellent, as are the assistants and specialty teachers. The staff is also very nice and well organized. All are committed to Waldorf education, which creates such a great environment for young children. The classrooms are beautiful and the curriculum is elegant but rigorous. The community is really nice...a very friendly and open group of parents. Every day there is a lot of discussion and helpful debate about parenting, improving the school, etc. The level of commitment to the school is remarkable. It is an easy place to develop friends, organize play dates, get help with child care, etc. We love the neighborhood setting of the school and the accessibility to nearby parks. Being able to walk or bike to school is a real plus. As the school grows it may have some growing pains but we really can't imagine a better school to send your kids to for K to 5th grade. The price is very fair too. read more

What can I say about this little school that has changed our lives for the better...The emphasis on kindness, inclusion, empathy is palpable upon entering the gates. The teachers and staff truly love the children. We began our journey in the parent toddler class four years ago and plan on staying all the way till eight grade. We initially shuttled our two girls in an hour commute because the environment is so worth it. They look forward to school daily. I only wish it was year-round. I changed work locations and we finally moved to Long Beach just to be closer to the school and community. We love Maple Village. read more

We are new to Maple Village, having joined the family during this pandemic. Even though our entire experience has been virtual, including the Walk-through, we feel like we are a part of the community. We appreciate the transparency and communication put forth by the administration and various task forces during this uncertain time. We feel included and apprised of what's going on during this ever-changing uncertain time. School begins two weeks, and although it will be virtual,I appreciate the time and thought that has been given to distance learning. The school has created a solid structure with space for growth, rather than strictly a zoom schedule and a bunch of busy work. Additionally, I feel supported as a parent by the teacher (and school), and I am more set up to succeed at "school at home" this time around. Furthermore, when we are ready to return in-person, Maple Village already has different plans ready to roll out once the green light is given. We are happy with our choice and are looking forward to growing and navigating these unprecedented times at Maple Village Waldorf School. read more

I can not express how amazing finding this school has been for our family. We now have three children attending and next year it will be four. It is not just a school...its a way of life. It isn't just about learning while sitting at a desk. It is about learning while moving, playing music, singing and being a part of a community. It units families and children while giving them a curriculum that is rich in color, sounds and story telling. While having an opportunity to home school my oldest son, I have been so impressed with the care of the teachers and truly can not say enough good stuff about Maple Village. We love you Maple Village!!! read more

What a crazy year due to COVID. Wow, Maple Village staff, faculty, and parents were simply amazing this year. The Maple Village community really pulled together and made the most out of a challenging time. This included getting a waiver out of the box, allowing the school to operate outdoors for a good portion of the year. Online education is challenging so getting back into the classroom as soon as possible was obviously a high priority. Operating outdoors took tremendous effort and commitment, I can't stress enough how impressive this effort was by the Maple Village staff. The school made every effort to get the students inside as soon as possible as well. So much is dependent upon parent volunteers, which is a sign of a strong community. We had book clubs and lots of support through the r to help us stay engaged. The parents we encountered are always so cool, you will never experience any "keeping up with the Jones" kind of Thing. While Waldorf is a different approach, I saw the benefits this year as my son has genuine intellectual interests and loves learning. Your child won't play with iPads or do worksheets, they will learn through narrative, play, and creative activities snd you will notice a big difference. read more

I am so glad one of my friends told me about Maple Village School! My daughter is enrolled in the Parent/Toddler class with Lisa and we both love it. There is a real sense of community at this school. I value the focus on nature, connection with the seasons, play, and healthy living and eating. It is a very nurturing environment that your child will blossom in. I highly recommend you go to their website to learn more about Waldorf education and set up an appointment to sit in on a class. They currently offer classes up through 2nd grade. You will be so happy you did! read more

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We started our Parent/Tot classes at another spot (highly rated JCC), and quickly realized it was NOT the place for us. The parents were all complaining & seemed to be miserable, but the red light was that my kid was clearly overstimulated and overwhelmed by all the brightly colored plastic toys. We didn't return after they started singing about boils (admittedly my own PTSD from religious private school). Anyway, it was a stark contrast to our next experience with lovely Waldorf. I'm glad the high pressure situation the JCC created to get us to enroll early for preschool directed us to find another, much better option for us. We searched Google Maps for preschools and saw that Maple Village Waldorf School was within walking distance. We were thrilled to visit and discover a charming, calm, warm, welcoming, child-centered, & play-based environment. Our Parent/Tot classes were my absolute highlight each week. We probably could've signed up for 2 classes/week because they're so affordable and such a delight. Miss Anne was our instructor and she really made us feel welcome even though we came on mid-season. Finding like-minded parents was a total game-changer as a parent of a little. Our kid is in her third year of attending the campus and is thriving in her preschool class. We have been elated with the quality of our community of parents, educators, and staff. We have a Village of mindful parents to support us and our kid. Private school really does have this over public schools. I was feeling hesitant to pay for 5 day kinder because 1) highly rated LB schools & 2) I didn't know how we were going to afford it (even though it's less than other privates), but where there's a will somehow there's a way. I highly encourage you to learn more, visit their Facebook Page, and/or sign up for a walk through to see if MVWS is a fit for your family. The school has grown up and is now a K-8, although it is still in need of a permanent space. We would love to have more green space in the near future, but they do a great job with vertical gardening & veggie garden boxes. A field and a parking lot would go a long way - though not a deal breaker for us. We didn't want cookie cutter, test-centered, sitting still, age inappropriate, homework loaded, boring, rote style education. The Waldorf trained teachers of are well-versed on how children develop and learn. We've experienced teachers being happy to spend time with us about whatever concerns arise - whether it be school or home-related. They are interested in teaching the WHOLE child. The education Waldorf provides is exactly what we were hoping for our kid. We feel so lucky to have found this nearby gem and grateful for the open-minded and inclusive people who make up this wonderful Village. We hope to stay as long as possible. We believe our kid would do well wherever she is, but we want her to be her BEST self. The happy factor cannot be underestimated. Maple Village Waldorf School teaches strong minds with helpful hands and happy hearts. Long Beach is lucky to have MVWS! read more

I was looking for a preschool but found so much more. I love the school's approach. I love how the parents are supported. This school brings everything back to nature, simplicity, smarts, and beauty. I love this school! read more

We love the community and the caring shared among all the students and teachers at this wonderful gem in Long Beach. Maple Village helps educate the whole child with such joy that going to school each day is what my kids ask for instead of avoid, and the blossoming and growing of their strength, integrity, and creativity along with the academics is so rewarding for me. Thank you Maple Village! read more

My experience with Waldorf has been positive. The teachers really care about their students and provide a positive learning environment.

We are sooo glad we discovered Maple Village last year! My son was really starting to 'shut down' after experiencing kindergarten in the public school system. We transferred him last year, and the whole environment at Maple Village really brought back the sparkle in his eye, his enthusiasm and his creativity. I wouldn't have believed it a year ago, but all summer long, he's been asking when school would start because he can't wait to return. Today was the first day of school - and the energy and enthusiasm and love among all the parents and children and teachers was truly magical. read more

It's hard to find the words to describe how extraordinary this institution is. From the leadership, the educators and the administration; they love the children, they believe in their abilities and they incorporate care and preparation into everything that they do. We toured schools in OC, LA and LB before ultimately choosing MVWS. Waldorf curriculum was important to us because we wanted our child to experience education through a school that honored his learning style. Not all schools are the same and we immediately recognized that Maple Village had everything that was truly important. They have their priorities straight. While their yard is small, it is thoughtfully curated to challenge the child through balance and movement. Classes spend time in the outdoors at nearby parks and the school building has a warmth of home that comforts the children. Their staff is top notch. I have been beyond pleased with the open communication with parents, the noticeable preparation and the care that our teacher takes with our child's classroom. read more

What a joy it has been watching my son stretch and grow at MVS. It was such a relief to find a school that would connect with my child as a whole person, that is willing to engage and encourage the imagination, the intellect, and the physical body. Not only does this school engage the child but welcomes in the whole family with plenty of volunteer opportunities and parent education. Maple Village is a gem in Long Beach's crown! read more

Our daughter attends the parent/toddler class at Maple Village on Fridays and it's the highlight of her week. I accompany her as often as I can and I'm always blown away by the talent and dedication of the teachers and administrators. I'm not sure that we would have found this wonderful school if it wasn't right in our neighborhood, but now that we're part of the Maple Village community it's hard to imagine sending our daughter anywhere else. If you live in the Long Beach area and want to give your child a great start in life, I'd encourage you to check it out. read more

We're so glad that we've found Maple Village, as it is a beautiful nurturing environment where children can learn through play and experience. It is such a blessing to be able to see my son's growth, his courage, his communication, his social skills, his sense of compassion all brought out in such a loving environment. read more

I cannot begin to express how special this school is and how much my daughter is thriving because of this peaceful, loving atmosphere. The songs she sings, the stories she tells, and the happiness in her heart all reassure me that Maple Village Waldorf is the kind of schooling every single child deserves. read more

After 10 years with this school I need to say that it has been a tremendously nurturing environment for my son. He is a spirited, strong-willed child and MVWS has known how to bring the best out in him. We have loved our experience with this community. read more

My wife and I were drawn to Maple Village Waldorf School soon after moving to Long Beach in 2010 and it quickly became clear to us that the Waldorf style of education, as well as the small class sizes, the warmth of community at this school, and emphasis on healthy, sustainable living were going to fit our family well. After four years with the school I now feel that Maple Village is one of the best private school values in greater Los Angeles. Both of my children (currently in kindergarten and 2nd grade at the school) have flourished in an environment that teaches the whole child, with particular emphasis on art, handwork (e.g. knitting, sewing, and woodwork), music, storytelling, and movement to compliment the typical main lessons covering math, language arts, etc. I am happy to add that Maple Village also incorporates Spanish language instruction beginning in 1st grade and continuing through 8th grade. Teaching such a breadth of topics at a Waldorf school and incorporating creative ways to reinforce concepts is no easy task but so far my children's teachers have been more than up to the task. This is a great school and I cannot recommend it enough for any parents considering the Parent-tot, Preschool, Kindergarten, or Grades programs up to 8th grade. Note that for working (or busy) parents morning and after-school care are available (morning care is free for Grades students). read more

As a public school educator (Speech pathologist) I get to see every day the differences between the Waldorf education and public school education. Although I work at one of the top schools in Long Beach I see key things that are missing in the curriculum of the public schools. The Waldorf education incorporates so many aspects that adhere to the natural development of the child's brain. Mostly the child at a Waldorf school may not even know they are learning. Because of my own education which incorporated many brain and child development teachings I greatly appreciate the way my children are learning at Maple Village. I am happy they not only benefit academically but strive at building their will, imagination, problem solving skills and confidence. Our family greatly cherishes the community, care, love (hugs) and inspiration that the teachers and staff at Maple Village have embraced our family with. read more

After a year of Kindergarten at a "top rated" Long Beach public elementary school, I knew the relentless paperwork, homework, testing and time spent seated at a desk (students were only allowed 15 minutes of recess per 3.5 hour day) were not what I envisioned for my son's education. We made the switch to Maple Village Waldorf School and couldn't be more pleased. My son regained his spark, curiosity and imagination and is actually happy to go to school each day (unlike his public school days when every morning was a battle to get out the door). MVWS provides a whole-child education, teaching art, music, reverence for nature and community, and LOTS of movement and outdoor time, as well as the basics you would expect from an elementary school. It's true that academics are taught at a slightly slower pace than what is currently being taught at public elementary schools, but that is a good thing. Thanks to the No Child Left Behind and Race to the Top initiatives, public schools are pressuring kids at younger and younger ages to perform at a grade level or two higher than they're developmentally capable of doing. Research shows that play in early childhood, not sitting at a desk doing paperwork, is critical for long-term educational success. (Check out the research on the Finnish educational system, which consistently ranks near the top in the world, yet students there don't begin formal education until age seven.) Bottom line is, I feel MVWS is providing our children a well-rounded education that still allows space for kids to be kids. The class sizes are much smaller than what you'd find in public schools, allowing the children to form connections with the teachers and other students. The community of parents is very active and engaged as well. MVWS is a special place and my family is grateful to have it in our lives. read more