The Gifts We Carry Forward

Dear Families,

These last few weeks of school have flown by!  There has been much activity on campus. Classes are wrapping up, field trips have been enjoyed, grades classrooms have been moved and kindergarten students are meeting their first grade teacher today.  Our students have grown so much over the course of this school year and are eager to take on the challenge of their next grade level. The 8th grade class just returned from their end of year trip and are ready for the rigor of High School.  Our High School seniors are prepared and enthused to take on their next challenge as they begin their college journey.

As we reflect on the year, we are grateful to all our families for their continued support and enthusiasm of our mission to bring Waldorf Education to our students.  In a world which continues to change rapidly, we remain committed to equipping our students with capacities that will serve them well throughout their lives.  Critical thinking, adaptability and flexibility remain at the core of our mission here at WSOC - creating noble and responsible global citizens is more important now than ever.

As we all part ways for the summer we hope that you enjoy spending time with those you love, and we are excited to see everyone back here in the fall.

Blessings,



Kim Eijpen

On behalf of the College of Teachers

Grade 4 students recently completed their Animal Projects, an interdisciplinary journey that combined research, writing, artistic expression, and presentation skills. After studying books about their chosen animals, students gathered information, wrote original reports in their own words, and sculpted detailed animals and habitats for their dioramas using a variety of materials. Along the way, they learned that creativity often requires flexibility, problem-solving, and perseverance. The project culminated in a presentation day where students proudly shared their work with confidence and enthusiasm, celebrating not only what they had created, but also the persistence and growth that made it possible.

Grade 5 students recently shared their Geography Projects, each representing a state they had come to know through research, creativity, and personal discovery. As they explored the landscapes, landmarks, traditions, and flavors of their chosen states, students developed a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of our country. The classroom came alive as families and visiting classes enjoyed student presentations, displays, and regional treats, celebrating the enthusiasm and care the children brought to their work.

Our Grade 5/6 Boys and Girls Soccer teams represented WSOC with skill, heart, and integrity at the Newport Soccer Classic. Throughout the tournament, both teams met challenges with determination and resilience, adapting to changing circumstances while supporting teammates and opponents alike with exceptional sportsmanship and empathy. Their hard work, teamwork, and perseverance earned both teams a place in the playoffs, capping off a memorable tournament that showcased not only their athletic abilities, but also the character and values that define our school community.

Grade 8 students embarked on a transformative journey to Yellowstone National Park. Surrounded by vast landscapes, geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, and the rhythms of the natural world, students experienced firsthand the geography, ecology, and history they had studied in the classroom. Beyond the academic learning, the trip fostered independence, resilience, and a deep sense of camaraderie as students navigated new challenges together. The Yellowstone trip served as a meaningful culmination of their middle school years, inspiring awe, curiosity, and a lasting connection to the natural world.

The WSOC community gathered for an evening of celebration, beginning with a beautiful Eurythmy performance by the junior and senior classes. Through movement, gesture, and presence, students offered a meaningful artistic expression that invited reflection and connection.



Following the performance, guests explored the Senior Project Gallery Walk, where seniors shared the culmination of months of research, creativity, and personal growth. Surrounded by family, friends, and teachers, students proudly presented their work and reflected on the journeys that shaped their projects. The evening was a heartfelt celebration of the Class of 2026 as they prepare to leave our halls and carry their unique gifts into the wider world.

WSOC Class of 2020 alum Carli Johnston just celebrated 6 months in her new role at Wayfair in Boston, MA. After graduating magna cum laude from Boston University with her BA in Sociology and a minor in Visual Art, she decided to stick around the city. After graduation, she was promoted to Head of Events and Culture at a local ice cream chain. She helped found, establish, and scale their events & catering program, and laid the groundwork for future expansion of their Human Resources department.

After a few years in the small business world, she recently decided to take on a role at

Wayfair’s Headquarters in Downtown Boston. She joined their Office Experience team, which is responsible for the in-office experience of over 2,000 employees. She helps run consumable programs, manages vendor relationships, and troubleshoots employee requests. She always tries to make people’s days feel easier and find ways to make each employee feel seen and heard.

Recently, Carli hosted a reptile show from local vendor Joe’s Crazzy Critters in the Wayfair office (pictured above). This allowed employees to take a break from work and enjoy their time with friends, colleagues, and animals!

We miss our alumni! Drop us a note and share what you’ve been up to—your work, your travels, your passions, and the things that bring you joy. We’d love to celebrate your journey and keep you connected to the WSOC community.

Email your update to: alumni@waldorfschool.com or message us on Instagram:

Whether you graduated Grade 8 or 12, or only spent a few years at WSOC, you are a Waldorf alum and welcome to join the alum community! Waldorf Alum Connect is open to all Waldorf alum (18+), Waldorf alum parents, and Waldorf faculty/staff, as well as alum and staff from Waldorf Teacher Training Institutes.

Click here to visit AWSNA's Waldorf Alum Connect platform.

As the school year comes to a close and summer begins, the Company of Angels is the perfect place to find thoughtful gifts, seasonal treasures, and handcrafted items while supporting WSOC. As a special end-of-year thank you, nearly all store merchandise is 25% off through Friday, June 12.

Although school is ending, the Company of Angels will remain available throughout the summer by appointment. To arrange a shopping time, please call or text Pam Lusk at (714) 925-6001. Thank you for supporting our school community, and happy summer!

Waldorf School Orange County thrives through the care and participation of our community. As a nonprofit, independent school, we rely on the generosity of parent volunteers whose time and energy help support the many programs and events that enrich our students’ experience. The Parent Association helps coordinate these efforts and provides meaningful ways for families to connect, contribute, and build community.

WSOC was built upon thousands of volunteer hours, and that spirit of participation continues to be an essential part of school life. We hope each family will find a way to get involved that fits both their schedule and interests. Whether you’re able to help with a small, one-time project or join a committee supporting larger initiatives throughout the year, every contribution makes a difference.

There are many opportunities to participate and share your talents within the Parent Association. To learn more about joining a committee or finding the right volunteer role for you, please contact parentassociation@waldorfschool.com.

June

Thu 6/11 • Last Day of School for Early Childhood

Thu 6/11, 8:45 am - 11:00 am • Parent Association | Craft Group

Fri 6/12, 8:00 am - 8:30 am • NUDAE Breakfast Friday (Class of 2031)

Fri 6/12 • Last Day of School for Grades & High School

Early Dismissal • Grades: 12:40 PM, High School: 1:00 PM

Fri 6/12, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm • Grade 8 Promotion

Sat 6/13, 1:30 - 3:00 pm • Grade 12 Graduation

Mon 6/15, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm • Board Meeting