WINTER WONDER & COMMUNITY WARMTH | | |
Last month brought the Hudson Valley an epic eighteen inches of snow that transformed our campus into a winter wonderland. For many of our students, this is the most snow they have ever seen, and the joy on their faces as they step into that white landscape is pure magic.
True to Waldorf tradition, our children have been outside every day, experiencing the full embrace of a northeastern winter. They've built elaborate snow tunnels, felt the crunch of snow beneath their boots, and discovered how silence sounds when the world is blanketed in white. Our students have also taken this winter spirit beyond campus – gliding across the ice at Mohonk Mountain House, building balance and confidence with every wobble and triumph. This immersion in nature's elements – cold air on rosy cheeks, wet mittens, the physical challenge of trudging through deep snow – builds the kind of resilience that can't be taught indoors.
Inside our warm classrooms, January brought its own magic: kindergartners leading their own puppet shows, seventh graders bringing down the house with Renaissance comedy, and an auditorium filled to capacity with families celebrating Mountain Laurel's exceptional music program. These are the experiences that strengthen both body and spirit, heart and mind.
And as the children play in the wintry weather, the sun's angle has already begun its shift toward spring, casting long golden light across the snow-covered grounds – a reminder that even in the coldest season, warmth and light persist.
Speaking of warmth and light, we are deeply grateful to announce that January's Warmth & Light Campaign exceeded our goals, raising over $20,000. Your generosity literally keeps our building warm and our lights shining bright through these winter months. But more than that, it reflects the warmth of this community – the belief in our children and our shared commitment to Waldorf education. Our Annual Giving Campaign continues throughout the year – we invite you to give at any time in support of the education that nurtures our children
As we move into February, we carry forward both kinds of light: the winter sun climbing higher each day, and the bright warmth of a community that tends this school together.
| WORDS FROM RUDOLF STEINER | In winter's depths is kindled true spirit life with glowing warmth; it gives to world appearance, through forces of the heart, the power to be. Grown strong, the human soul defies with inner fire the coldness of the world. | | |
MUSIC SHARE: FROM HOT CROSS BUNS TO BEETHOVEN
In January, grades 1-8 gathered for our Winter Music Share, filling the New Paltz High School auditorium to capacity with parents, family, and friends. The evening opened with the 4th & 5th Grade Chorus singing Morning Glory – an angelic performance that captured the innocent, dreamy quality of childhood. Music is an integral and thriving part of the Mountain Laurel curriculum, and this evening showcased the remarkable range of our program. First graders charmed the audience with "Hot Cross Buns" and "I'm the Wind," while grades 1-3 demonstrated their growing skill on flutes and recorders. The 4th & 5th Grade Orchestra performed Vivaldi's "Autumn from The Four Seasons," and the Community Orchestra brought vibrant energy with "Rhythms of Africa" before their stirring rendition of Beethoven's "Egmont Overture" – a powerful reminder that our music program truly is exceptional.
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BUILDING BALANCE, CONFIDENCE & CAMARADERIE ON ICE
Throughout January, students in grades 1-8 have been taking ice skating field trips to the beautiful rink at Mohonk Mountain House, with many thanks to our parent volunteers who drive and chaperone. Ice skating is a cherished part of our winter curriculum – more than just physical exercise, it strengthens balance, coordination, and body awareness while building resilience and confidence. As children glide across the ice together, some wobbling on new skates while others gain mastery, they experience the joy of movement in nature's coldest season. These outings foster connection to seasonal rhythms and class camaraderie, supporting the whole child through meaningful winter activity.
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SEVENTH GRADE BRINGS THE COMEDY
Mr. C's 7th Grade class brought the house down with their production of "The Love for Three Oranges," a Renaissance-inspired Commedia dell'arte comedy directed by Lydia Pidlusky. Complete with stock characters like Pantalone and a literal slapstick – the very origin of slapstick comedy – the students were lively, agile, articulate, and genuinely funny. The whole school gathered to watch, and laughter filled the community room as the 7th graders demonstrated their theatrical skill and comic timing. It was a joyful reminder of how drama in the Waldorf curriculum develops confidence, expression, and the courage to take creative risks.
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KINDERGARTEN MAGIC: WHEN CHILDREN LEAD
January in Kindergarten was filled with wonder – painting with all the colors of the rainbow and folding delicate window stars. But the true magic came when the children decided to put on their own puppet show, retelling a traditional winter story they had recently celebrated. The oldest kindergartner took the lead, directing classmates and narrating the tale with confidence and care. For the teachers, it was one of those precious moments when months of steady groundwork suddenly blossoms – watching children step into leadership, collaborative play, and creative expression with such natural grace.
| | SIMPLICTY PARENTING CORNER | | |
SAYING, FEELING & DOING SORRY
In this podcast episode, Kim John Payne explores the difference between asking children to say sorry and helping them genuinely make things right. While acknowledging that saying sorry has value, Kim cautions against forcing apologies, which often leads to defensiveness, shame, or empty words. When children feel pressured or shamed, Kim explains, they are far more likely to deny or resist rather than reflect. Instead, he invites parents to look beneath the apology and focus on what truly matters: a child recognizing that something crossed a family value and taking responsibility in a way that feels real and restorative.
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WINTER REVELRY: MOUNTAIN LAUREL AFTER DARK
FRIDAY, MARCH 7 | 6-11 PM | LOCUST GROVE
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and community! This adults-only celebration brings together incredible live music from Free Whenever – whose improvisational fusion of psychedelia, funk, and soul creates pure magic—followed by DJ Bill Skillz spinning hip-hop, soul, and rare groove to keep you moving all night long.
Enjoy delicious local food and drink, bid on special raffle and auction items, and reconnect with the Mountain Laurel community in a whole new way. Whether you're claiming the dance floor or catching up with friends, this is your chance to dress up, let loose, and celebrate together. All are invited, so spread the word and bring your friends.
Secure your babysitter early and get tickets today! All proceeds support Mountain Laurel's programs and the creative experiences that make our community thrive.
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OPPORTUNITY: SUMMER PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Mountain Laurel seeks a Summer Program Director to develop and oversee our Waldorf-inspired summer program for children ages 3 and up. For someone who loves bringing outdoor wonder and play to young children, this position offers the opportunity to design and lead a program where rhythm and reverence guide each day. Position available immediately, with opportunities for growth. Learn more.
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CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH AMADOU DIALLO
This February marks the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, and the VIE group is honored to welcome Amadou Diallo to Mountain Laurel on Monday, February 9 at 8:30am for a special all-school assembly.
Amadou is a master percussionist from Senegal, West Africa, who has shared his rich cultural heritage throughout the Hudson Valley since 2001. As a performer and teacher with The Vanaver Caravan for over 20 years, he brings authentic West African rhythms and traditions to life through drumming, dance, and storytelling.
During our morning assembly, Amadou will share stories of growing up in Senegal among diverse ethnic groups, languages, and musical traditions. He'll demonstrate traditional instruments including the Djembe hand drum, the large Dun Dun stick drums, the Gongoma, Talking Drums, and the Tooksonggala, teach us a Senegalese song, and share children's games from his homeland. Following the assembly, Amadou will spend the day working with all classes as part of their World Dance experience.
Families are warmly invited to join us for this special Morning Assembly from 8:30-9am as we celebrate the profound contributions of African culture and heritage to our shared human experience.
Additional Community Events Celebrating Black History Month:
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DISCOVER THE TREASURES IN OUR SCHOOL STORE | | Looking for a special Valentine's gift or the perfect treasure for the tooth fairy to leave behind? Visit the Mountain Laurel School Store, located in our entrance foyer or online. You'll find beautiful gems and crystals, handmade natural items, Waldorf art supplies and craft kits, thoughtfully selected books, seasonal items, and Mountain Laurel logo clothing and gear. Whether you're shopping for a child's birthday, a teacher appreciation gift, or simply want to support our school while finding something special, the store offers unique treasures you won't find elsewhere. Every purchase supports Mountain Laurel! | | | SUMMER PROGRAM REGISTRATION IS OPEN! | | | | Registration is now open for Mountain Laurel's 2026 Summer Program for children ages 3–8. Pre-registration rates are available through March 1 ($425/week), with special discounts for sibling registrations and families registering for four or more weeks. New this year: After-Care available until 5:30pm. | | UPCOMING EVENTS
FEBRUARY & MARCH | |
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MORNING ASSEMBLY WITH AMADOU DIALLO
Monday, February 9
8:30 - 9:00 AM
MLWS families are welcome to join the school for a special celebration of Black History Month. See above for more details.
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VOICES FOR INCLUSION & EQUITY (VIE) GROUP
Tuesdays, February 10 & 24 and March 10 & 24
7:00 - 8:00 PM via Zoom
The VIE Group is dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, inclusive, just, and welcoming school environment. Meets every other week; see School Calendar for all dates. Email vie@mountainlaurel.org for more information.
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PARENT COUNCIL MEETING
Friday, February 13
2:00 - 3:00 PM
2nd Floor at 7 Innis Avenue (enter at back of building)
All MLWS parents and caregivers are welcome to participate in a meeting designed by and for parents and caregivers. Email parentcouncil@mountainlaurel.org for more information.
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NO SCHOOL - FEBRUARY RECESS
Monday, February 16 - Friday, February 20
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EARLY BIRD DEADLINE FOR SUMMER PROGRAM REGISTRATION
Saturday, March 1
Summer Days at Mountain Laurel offers children up to eight full weeks of fun and adventure in an enriching and nurturing environment. June 22 – August 14, 2026. Weekly and daily rates available. Only $425 per week if you register before or on March 1st. ($450 per week if you register on or after March 2nd.) Learn more and register.
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WINTER REVELRY: MOUNTAIN LAUREL AFTER DARK
Saturday, March 7
6:00 - 11:00 PM
A night of revelry featuring live music by psychedelic groove trio Free Whenever, body moving beats from DJ Bill Skillz and righteous yums from Poughkeepsie Institution Rossi & Sons. Expect raffle prizes, auction finds, a packed dance floor, and a legendary night out! Click here for tickets.
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AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS
Beginning the week of March 9
Our Spring After School Clubs will begin the week of March 9th. Watch this space for updates and new offerings!
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PARENT COUNCIL MEETING
Friday, March 13
2:00 - 3:00 PM
2nd Floor at 7 Innis Avenue (enter at back of building)
All MLWS parents and caregivers are welcome to participate in a meeting designed by and for parents and caregivers. Email parentcouncil@mountainlaurel.org for more information.
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NO SCHOOL - EID AL-FITR
Thursday, March 19
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NO SCHOOL - PARENT / TEACHER CONFERENCES
Friday, March 20
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AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
Friday, March 20
9:00am to 1:00pm
Conveniently scheduled on the same day as parent-teacher conferences when there's no school. Childcare will be available so parents can give blood before or after conferences. Registration will be available soon.
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NO SCHOOL - SPRING BREAK
Monday, March 30 - Monday, April 6
| | CLASSIFIEDS & COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS | | |
Submit your listing
To have your classifieds or community announcements listed in our next issue of The Laurel, please submit entries here by February 15th. Thank you!
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