our approach

Meadowlark is a nature-based, Waldorf-inspired microschool in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The curriculum is designed to nourish the developing child in each stage of their growth. Learning is threefold and experienced with the head, heart, and hands. We seek to foster a child’s natural sense of wonder and build a deep foundation for learning and social-emotional development. This approach ultimately supports the student’s capacities for creativity, independent thinking, and moral judgment. 

Young boy climbing a tree, exploring the natural world and developing confidence, as part of our nature-based curriculum inspired by Waldorf education.
Children collaboratively building a teepee with tree branches, fostering teamwork and hands-on learning in the outdoors.
Children playing in the nearby woods, engaging in imaginative outdoor play and connection with nature.

faq

Young girl collecting sticks in the woods, exploring nature and developing creativity through hands-on activities.

our story

Meadowlark is a joyful second grade class in Saint Paul, MN, taught by longtime Waldorf teacher, Joyce Kapell. Our curriculum is grounded in love and reverence for the natural world and is inspired by Waldorf pedagogy. Meadowlark was founded by parents whose children attended Marigold Preschool. Marigold was founded in fall of 2021 by Brenda Haak, a Waldorf teacher of over 30 years. Brenda guided our children (and us) through a transformative experience as we learned how beautiful and healing an education can be. In an effort to grow this community and continue this education Meadowlark was born. Our intention is to continue to grow the school and to make it accessible to all.

Children playing on a snowy lake with their teacher nearby and pine trees in the background, enjoying winter exploration and outdoor learning.

“Whoever you are, no matter how lonely, the world offers itself to your imagination, calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting - over and over announcing your place in the family of things.”

- Mary Oliver