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Integrating Waldorf Education with Lakota Language and Culture

Empowering our children for a brighter future

Fostering curiosity, imagination, and creativity

Supporting the cultural and individual identity of Lakota children

Education that integrates head, heart, and hands

Welcome to Indigenous Waldorf Education

Located in the heart of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, the Lakota Waldorf School (LWS) is an independent, nonsectarian, and tuition-free school serving children, Grades K-8.

LWS was founded in 1993 by parents from the Oglala Lakota Tribe committed to an alternative vision of education – one that would help Lakota children connect with their roots while also preparing them academically to meet the world. The Waldorf curriculum was chosen because it dovetails so well with the Lakota culture and is well-positioned to preserve the Lakota language.

Today our school is distinguished as the only one in North America to integrate the wonders of Waldorf Education with a program on Lakota language and culture. LWS is also recognized as the only Waldorf School in the states located on an Indian Reservation.

School Programs

The Pine Ridge Reservation

Waldorf Education

Mission & History

Wakanyeja unkitawapi ki Lakoliyapi na Lakol ounyanpi ki yuha manipi kte heca.

Our children must walk with the Lakota language and Lakota way of life.

Testimonials

“My grandson has just completed his first year at Lakota Waldorf and I am impressed at the change in his attitude, behavior, and love of learning but most importantly, our Lakota culture and language. He had previously attended another school and was beginning to lose his desire to attend school. Once he started at LWS, his enthusiasm returned and now he loves going to school.”

“Our daughters have attended Lakota Waldorf School since kindergarten. They truly flourish under this Waldorf curriculum integrated with their Lakota language and culture. We are grateful for the dedication and support of the teaching staff that have helped our children grow immensely. We love how our children wake up enthusiastic about going to school. They sing Lakota songs all week and teach us how to say different things in Lakota.”

“Lakota Waldorf School has provided my daughter a unique education that I would not be able to afford in other part of the country. The school creates a community that doesn’t only focus on learning, but also focuses on educating the whole child. My daughter has also become more confident with using her native language and in her own cultural identity.”

Shop Online

We are now offering LWS products in our online shop, including t-shirts, mugs, posters and other goodies. All sales help support the mission of our school.

“Storytelling, artistic projects, nature activities, mealtime traditions, playtime, and hands-on learning opportunities – It is remarkable to see how the philosophy and methods of Waldorf Education are intrinsically aligned with these fundamental teaching practices of indigenous people.”

Caroline Stadnick

LWS Resource Teacher & Counselor