The School of the Salish Sea is the newest member of Orcas Island’s diverse educational options. The school is being mentored and supported by a multi-generational Waldorf community that was originally on Orcas as the Dolphin Bay Waldorf School. The school is committed to offering an education that recognizes the inherent wisdom in children and motivates their highest capacities in fulfilling, joyous ways. Waldorf education is the fastest growing independent school movement in the world.

Moving here from Hawaii this August, Ronna McEldowney will be the primary teacher for this new pre-school and kindergarten. McEldowney has been a trained Waldorf teacher for more than 32 years. She helped start and mentor Waldorf schools all over the country.

“Ronna works artistically and practically with the natural world, which inspires children to strive for the highest good,” Jesica Sweedler DeHart, school administrator and director, said. “Her love of children and community continues to motivate her life. Ronna and her husband, Robert David, have visited Orcas before and are excited to join the island community.”

The School of the Salish Sea is accepting new students for enrollment this fall and will be offering programs for parents and children from birth to age seven. The first day of school is September 1. The school is located at 2208 Enchanted Forest Road on 14 acres among a garden, orchard, and forest.

Information can be found on the web at www.schoolofthesalishsea.com or by calling 376-4552 or 928-458-0552.

A community tea will be held August 9, from 2 to 4 p.m. in honor of the arrival of McEldowney and David.