Circle Of Seasons Foundation Inc

The Circle of Seasons Foundation Inc is dedicated to fostering community participation and philanthropy towards Circle of Seasons Charter School, which is unique as the only public school on the East Coast that adheres to the core principles of Public Waldorf Education. The mission of this foundation is to encourage and support this school, providing children with a holistic learning experience that goes beyond traditional academics.

One of the foundation's significant programs is the Gardening Program, which offers elementary school students experiential learning opportunities across various academic subjects, including math, biology, chemistry, nutrition, social science, and visual art. This program not only enhances children's understanding of these subjects but also teaches them about environmental sustainability, the food chain, healthy food choices, and the connection between community and history. Furthermore, the Gardening Program encourages collaboration, perseverance, patience, spatial awareness, and map skills in students.

In addition to the Gardening Program, the Circle of Seasons Foundation Inc has an Instrumental Music Program that provides children with the opportunity to learn music and create music. This program is not only academic but also therapeutic, particularly beneficial for children with special needs, as it develops cognitive abilities, physical abilities, and social skills. The foundation's unique approach to music education connects children to each other and the human experience, providing them with a different language to express themselves.

The Manual Arts program, specifically woodworking, offers fifth-graders a unique opportunity to "think with their hands," mastering tools and creating something purposeful. Woodworking classes, which have largely been eliminated from public schools since the 1990s, allow children to be active learners, fostering a sense of accomplishment and independence. Eliminating programs like woodworking may alienate children whose abilities do not align well with traditional classroom learning, making this type of hands-on education essential.

Lastly, the Circle of Seasons Foundation Inc has a unique approach to integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) subjects. The students engage in phenomenological science investigations that incorporate observation, hands-on technology, practical physics, real-life mathematics, and both visual and performing arts in their daily interdisciplinary main lesson experiences. This integrated approach to STEAM education ensures that children gain a comprehensive understanding of these subjects, preparing them for future academic and personal success.