| Date | Who | Comments |
| 7/25/2012 | parent | I have to admite that I am one of those parents that is most concerned about the overall happiness of my child at school. I happen to believe that children have an innate curiosity about the way the world works and parents need to foster a love of learning over rigid academics as the only path to knowledge. That said, academically one of my children is advanced, while the other struggles, and both LOVE school. My daughters teacher offered to stay after school several days a week to tutor students, and some students stayed as peer tutors because it was such a warm environment. I agree that ethnic diversity is lacking, and the school admin. are working to promote enrollment from other demographics. On one hand, I want to keep the school a secret so It can stay small a cozy, but I can't keep such a wealth of educational gold to myself. |
| 5/6/2012 | parent | We LOVE this school. If you want your child to be an independent and creative thinker, value interaction with the natural world, learn to self regulate, focus, and care for others this is a wonderful educational option...along with rich academics as they move into the higher grades. Worldorf curriculum encompasses a broad historical base and classical education beginning with helpers of humanities, the ancient Hebrews, ancient Greece, the Rennaisance etc. It is well worth checking out. Also- in the years we have attended no one has ever tried to tell us where or where not we could attend a birthday party! My kids relate well to ALL types of children within and without of the Waldorf community....in the end kids are kids...and Waldorf certainly allows and encourages children to be children... |
| 4/21/2012 | parent | The parent reviews sum up this school well. For those that value alternative Waldorf methods and community, no homework, do not mind the no media at school and home policy (no TV, Movies, computers and images on clothing/lunchboxes/backpacks), this is a great school. For those that value academics, discipline, learning about technology, and enabling your child to have things in common with and be comfortable relating to kids outside the small Waldorf community, this is not the school for you. For example of the latter, attending a friend's birthday party at Chuck'E'Cheezes is not in keeping with the School's Waldorf methods. Also, be sure to check the School's report card on the Oregon Department of Education Website. I found the School's performance claims to be inaccurate. |
| 1/20/2012 | parent | We are very happy at PVS. It's a new school, and there are still challenges to be expected at a new school (parking, space, discipline, creating policies, etc). What matters most is that my children are learning and thriving in a Waldorf inspired environment. My older son started at a more traditional school, but is so much more comfortable at PVS. My younger son has known nothing else. Classrooms are lovely, attention is paid to how kids treat each other. No commercial images or "movie talk" is allowed. No computers on site. Learning is thoughtful- not just endless piles of worksheets. They are on track with their grade levels. They are learning fractions though music, multiplication through stories and song. Their main lesson books are beautiful. Give PVS a chance if you are flexible, believe in Waldorf education, want a slower approach than is offered in a tradtional school, and can stand the growing pains of a new school. |
| 10/21/2011 | parent | I don't really understand where some of the previous negative reviews are coming from- and seem to me to be cases of individuals who did not fit well with their teacher or the school. I have been pleased with the organization of the school and have never before received such constant and consistent communication in any other school setting. In fact they have a committee which meets to specifically address communication. Look at the website for evidence of this- and read the monthly newsletter~ and in terms of diversity the school makes every effort to prioritize this. One only needs to look at the various celebrations within the school year to see evidence of this- starting with the lantern walk in late October for Diwali. My child is gifted and has done extremely well at PVS. She is curious about everything accross subjects. I would tell prospective parents who are interested in PVS and Waldorf to come and see the school themselves when there are classes in session- and kids engaged in learning- talk to teachers and administrators- and parents- then make your mind up. As I said- we've been thrilled! |
| 10/21/2011 | parent | Portland Village School is a still-young, but firmly established free public charter school which has adapted the Waldorf curriculum and teaching methods to the needs of a public school community. We are inspired by the demonstrated success of the Eugene Village School, the Alice Birney School, The Urban Waldorf School, and many other public Waldorf-methods programs serving diverse populations. Waitlists for most of our classes demonstrate the strong demand for this kind of program in Portland. Our core academic program engages children in all subjects using art, music, movement, and direct presentation of lesson materials. The effectiveness of our approach is evidenced by PVS students performing above district and state averages on the required standardized tests. In addition to a rich core curriculum, Children learn Chinese and Spanish from native speakers several times a week, learn folk dances from around the world, create handmade crafts of increasing complexity, and study both vocal and instrumental music. PVS fosters a love of learning in a nurturing environment which values the education of the class as a community equally with the individual. We welcome your visit! |
| 10/17/2011 | parent | The school is disorganized. Teaching methods do not allow for different learning styles. They give lip service to Gardner's Multiple Intelligences framework. Teachers halt all teaching of main lesson to practice for a play...for 3-4 weeks. Kids with learning disabilities are not well supported. Teachers are unwilling to change the Waldorf method in order to accomodate special needs. And the school does not celebrate diversity of thought, of cultures, etc. So, if you are of European descent (white) and have children without learning challenges/disabilities, you'll love this school. You can never question the teaching method, because it is always the student who is "behind in some developmental skill". They'll prescribe house chores, mid-line exercises, etc. to enhance the child's learning capabilites. The teacher has NOTHING to change. The onus is always on the child. The school is a great fit if you are from Portland, of European descent (white) and your children do not have learning disabilities. |
| 2/25/2011 | parent | We love the education our child is receiving. Our child is reading 2-3 grades levels ahead and is excelling in all areas. Couldn't ask for a better school environment where art, music, foreign language, handwork, academics are valued and children love to learn. The teachers, administrators and parents truly care. |
| 1/17/2011 | parent | Very slow track methods for learning and super old school in regards to their philosophy, of course, Waldorf. This school will be a challenge for the modern child and the gifted. |
| 1/7/2011 | parent | This school might work for you if 1) you don't care much whether your child learns anything, 2) you have a very high tolerance for discipline issues and a very disorganized and unprofessional discipline response, 3) you don't mind rampant flakiness such as the staff (even the administration!) not following written policies, 4) you don't mind whether your small child is properly supervised, 5) you can tolerate inconsistent and unprofessional communication styles from the staff. This school is a nightmare. Run! |
| 4/30/2010 | parent | I love PVS because it holds the whole of my child not JUST the academic piece. It regcognizes the importance of the integration of her body, spirit, and mind and includes activities in the curriculum that allows her to grow in different ways--dance, art, handwork, as well as math and reading. |
| 4/27/2010 | parent | The school addresses both the academic and emotional development of the children. The teachers honestly care about each child. |
| 4/26/2010 | parent | So many things: the teachers, the art, the dancing, the music, the community....I could go on forever |
| 4/26/2010 | parent | The Waldorf cirriculum provides and unique teaching method through connection to the earth and community. |
| 4/26/2010 | parent | It has been the best school for my daughter! Waldorph methods taught at a public charter school! |
| 4/26/2010 | other | Because Waldorf education is wonderful! and my granddaughter deserves the best. |
| 4/26/2010 | other | Portland Village school is where my niece attends. I have visited this school and am very amazed at the creative way they plug into the children. With caring teachers and active parents. It is a school that should be the model for others. |
| 4/26/2010 | other | My granddaughter attends Portland Village School. I pick-up a happy, excited child three afternoons a week. She is ready to share something new she learned that day and she shakes her teachers hand 'Good-by'. Portland Village School, a Waldorf public charter school is great! |
| 4/23/2010 | parent | There is an enthusiasm for learning and discovery that lures the students deep into the heart of the integrated subject matter. I love that the kids love learning! |
| 4/23/2010 | parent | Developmentally appropriate curriculum integrated with arts. Wonderful community! My kids feel at home. |
| 4/23/2010 | parent | I love the Waldorf educational philosophy and the fact that it believes in a media-free environment with a curriculum full of music, arts and crafts. |
| 4/23/2010 | other | True intelligence that manifests through the heart is present at Portland Village School. It is a perfect place for young people to grow. |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | Development of the whole child - from reading to math to gaining true appreciation for learning to valuing differences among peers. |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | The teachers are great, they really care about the kids. A very close and friendly community. The kids love it! |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | I feel particularly grateful for the warmth of the community. Not only has my daughter made friends with kids who I hold in deep regard, but my wife and I have also found rich friendships. I relish the environment created by the school, the staff, the waldorf curriculum, and the families. I particularly welcome the support created by the community for a more sane and relationship rich life. |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | I love that its Waldorf based in its teaching. No homework for the children. No text books to bog down the teaching routine. My daughter already has learned to knit and sing songs in several other languages. Her Spanish is coming along better than in her private lessons last year. And in the process of letting her learn at her own pace she has learned to read even though its not pushed in the school in first grade. She is receiving foundations in math and reading that is barely grazed over in the average public school. |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | Arts, nature, caring, community- a great place to grow up! |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | Spanish, Movement, Handworks, Art, Aesthetics, and all the important stuff too! |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | The children have an education that integrates head, hearth and hands. |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | This great school is not only educating children with inovative ways, but also building good citizens, who as adults will be making decisions about our world from a foundation of love, respect and stewardship. |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | I love the school because of the dedicated, creative and caring teachers, staff and administrator. The all-volunteer board that oversees our school's policies is effective, smart, and hard-working. I know what to expect when my children are at school, and their days are filled with creative learning. Just attended my second graders' class play last night and it was outstanding. This is one of many great learning experiences they take part in throughout the year. Finally, the parent community is amazing. There's no other way to describe their dedication and resourcefulness. |
| 4/22/2010 | other | My grandchildren love the school and seem to be blooming academically and socially. The teachers seem to care for each child individually. |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | I am so happy to have my son at this school. The staff is so kind and attentive, with love. gentleness, and true concern for my son's welfare. He had a really hard time at his last school, but with calm patient attention, he is finally starting to like being at school. This is a school that truly cares! |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | Because it teaches the my child how to be part of a community not just a student! |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | Walk into the school and feel the warmth and positive energy. Everyone, staff, teachers, and students, is growing together. |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | I love the content of the curriculum, the value of arts and movement in learning, the trust that education is not just an accumulation of information, the teachers, the community of parents. It is a welcoming, refreshing place to be. |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | I love the Waldorf-inspired curriculum and the arts integrated education. Its wonderful! |
| 4/22/2010 | parent | PVS makes school, beautiful and fun. The community is amazing and my son is so happy. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | It is a wonderful school, a public charter school inspired in Waldorf Education. The community is really good, the teachers are filled with enthusiasm and the children are happy. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Great Waldorf inspired cirriculam. Wonderful teachers and caring community of parents. Handwork, folk dance and teaching of the whole child. A school with heart. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | amazing group of parents, teachers, kids....we love everything! |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Waldorf pedagogy at public school prices....great community, great kids, great teachers, great school! |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | We have a great group of parents who are incredibly involved in our school. Our teachers are incredible. Children are excited to go to school everyday. It's a pretty amazing place! |
| 4/21/2010 | teacher | enthusiastic teachers... joyful children... educated parents. affordable waldorf-inspired education. i love teaching here! |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | A wonderful school, fantastic teachers and a great community of kids and parents... though under supported by the Portland Public School System |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | A wonderful place to send my children for education..My daughter's 1st year has been incredible. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Such a great community of kids, parents and teachers! We are so happy to be a part of this school. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | simply, the community that comes together to make the entire program work. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | The community is fantastic we believe in this school and all it represents. The faculty is committed to our children and giving them a true love of learning |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | I love the arts-based and child-centered curriculum. I love that it is a charter school and there is a vibrant community that works together to make the school a wonderful place. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Beautiful classroom where an engaging and integrated curriculum is taught by loving and inspiring teachers. The children love learning and can't wait to go to school. Pretty amazing place! |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | The staff, parents and children create a very unique, wonderful community unlike any other school. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | it's a free waldorf charter. it has an engaging curriculum( my kids have never missed a day of school-they love school!), and an amazing and committed staff and parent community. it is truly unique! |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | I love the dedication of the teachers. I love the emphasis on the arts and creativity. I feel my daughter is getting a very good education at PVS. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | A curriculum that values each of the intelligences and a community that is loyal and supportive. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | the support of the staff and other parents is very positive and engaging. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Portland Village School is a vibrant and thriving community of all kinds of folks... children with heart and soul learning to live with their whole life loving selves |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | I couldn't imagine sending my children to any other school. Their creativity is nurtured, they get to run, dance and sing and their minds are nourished with a curriculum that emphasizes not only knowledge, but also fosters a lifetime love of learning. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | What a wonderful school for children to have an opportunity to have a Waldorf Education in a public school setting. It's my neighborhood school and we love it! |
| 4/21/2010 | other | My granddaughter has enjoyed 2nd, 3rd, and this year 4th grade. The same wonderful teacher continues with the class each year creating a stable trusting relationship that my granddaughter will always recall with great fondness. A demanding curriculum combines with active learning - school is never boring. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Portland Village School offers a fresh alternative to Portland's public school system. I think the best thing about PVS is the community involvement at the school. Their events are well attended by most of the parents, and their are strong parent-teacher bonds. I've been in education my whole professional life, and it's the best school I've ever seen. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | This school is special for it's dedication to teaching to the whole child. Teachers do not merely wish to educate children, but inspire them to connect with the world evoking curiosity. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Brilliantly integrated curriculum with art, music, spanish and dance. The teachers are wonderful! |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Portland Village School is a little slice of heaven on earth. I have two children in the school and feel lucky ever day (literally) that we found this little oasis in which our they can both grow. The commitment of the teachers and the entire school community to letting kids be kids, respecting the earth, and educating the whole child is unparalleled. In a city (Portland) where schools continually fail to provide families what they need and want for their children, Portland Village School is a shining example of just how good things can be. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | A public school with a beautiful 'whole child' curriculum based on nature, art, song and dance, mythology and storytelling. Our teachers are amazing, generous, talented, loving and dedicated. The parents are committed to the children and the school, and you see many of the same faces volunteering hours and hours of time - building desks, painting walls, sewing curtains, decorating for our annual auction, landscaping, providing teachers with goodies and snacks, selling scrip - it's and endless act of love. PVS is an alternative we drive all the way across town for, with absolutely no regrets! Our daughter is thriving in a way we did not see at our neighborhood school. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Portland Village School is a wonderful community of kids and parents who work together toward common goals. The school provide a nurturing environment for young minds eager to learn, play, and experience life. |
| 4/21/2010 | other | It has enhanced my grandaughters life immensely as well as her entire family! If more schools used similar teaching methods the world would be in much better shape! It gives me hope for the future that these children will inherit and shape. |
| 4/21/2010 | teacher | Waldorf Inspired Public Charter School, great community, dedicated teachers, amazing curriculum |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Portland Village School has, in three short years, built an amazing community and educational system. Based on Waldorf philosophies, but embracing more current themes and being open to a wider cultural scope, it is creating confident, well-rounded children who are eager to learn. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | An education for the whole child--head, heart and hands. An education that will develop responsible and capable adults, at peace with themselves and the world around them. |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Excellent school. We are so happy to be part of such a wonderful community! |
| 4/21/2010 | parent | Because the school community and staff are so supportive of our children. |
| 9/24/2009 | parent | The school does not focus much attention on academics and does not have the support or ability to work with children of different learning styles and needs! |
| 9/17/2009 | parent | My granddaughter is learning so quickly, absolutely loves her school, classmates, teachers, and activities. The Waldorf style provides enriched creative development, self-confidence and socialization skills. Parents are amazingly involved. |
