Humanities - Maine Coast Waldorf School

The humanities curriculum at Maine Coast Waldorf School invites students into the ongoing story of what it means to be human, past, present, and future.

Themes That Guide Discovery

Through an interdisciplinary blend of literature, history, civics, and drama, students develop the skills and sensibilities necessary for a thoughtful and connected life.

Big Questions & Bold Ideas

Our courses are rooted in big questions and bold ideas, evolving with students as they move from ninth grade through twelfth. Students begin by studying contemporary literature and civic foundations, then expand their lens to explore ancient cultures, world religions, and global perspectives.

They trace the arc of human consciousness through Medieval and Renaissance history, and ultimately arrive at modern history and the pressing social, political, and environmental questions of today.

Seminar Learning: Ideas in Conversation

Key topics include the Constitution and Bill of Rights, US History, Ancient Civilizations, Middle East Studies, and World Religions. Discussion-based classes nurture confidence in speaking, listening, and making connections across disciplines and cultures.

By twelfth grade, students engage with Modern History and contemporary issues, with the tools to analyze and contribute meaningfully.

From Literary Analysis to Creative Expression

Literature is a core thread throughout all four years. From Moby-Dick, The Odyssey, Parzival, and American Transcendentalism to units on African Literature, Queer History, Immigrant Stories, and Disability Literature, students encounter a broad spectrum of voices.

Students practice close reading, research, analysis, and essay writing, while also exploring creative forms such as poetry, storytelling, and personal narrative.

Epic Journey Beyond the Pages

Fresh from reading The Odyssey, tenth grade students embarked on their own journey, whitewater rafting, camping, and spelunking through limestone caves in New York's Hudson Valley.

Through their wilderness outing, students experienced how progress comes from perseverance and trust in one another—echoing The Odyssey’s enduring themes of adventure, resilience, and self-discovery.

class trips

Confident & College-Ready

Our graduates thrive as self-motivated, engaged learners, strengthened through seminar-style discussions and experiential learning. They are practiced in intellectual discourse, skilled at building meaningful faculty relationships, and confident in taking ownership of their education.

Life After Waldorf

Creative Minds, Skilled Hands

Visual and practical arts are at the heart of our curriculum, helping students build technical skills and empowering them to bring their ideas to life. Artistic work is integrated into academic classes to elevate the role of innovation and imagination in intellectual growth.

Visual Arts

Wellness That Empowers

Our holistic approach nurtures student wellness through meaningful social connection, academic support, emotional care, nourishing meals, and joyful movement. Learning and growth flourish when students feel supported and valued in all aspects of their development.

Wellness & Support

From Debate to Diplomacy

Students step into the world of international diplomacy through our Model UN elective, culminating in the Maine Model UN Conference.

Students build confidence in public speaking, and sharpen debate and critical thinking skills. This engagement with contemporary global issues prepares students to become dynamic leaders in a rapidly changing, interconnected world.

electives

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