As a decade-long resident of the Sea to Sky, and after seven years of teaching at the Whistler Waldorf School (WWS), it is evident to me the WWS is an integral part of the community in numerous ways. I’m deeply concerned this decision will negatively impact the Whistler community.
Some key points that come to mind: Whistler Waldorf offers educational opportunities for families seeking alternative options, whether because their child benefits from specific supports or because they believe in the value of a holistic, experiential learning experience. While this specific approach may not be the right fit for every child or family, having this option in Whistler has and still does positively impact many students and families.
While the WWS may be perceived as an exclusive private school, it is one of the most affordable alternative education programs in the entire province. Many students are on tuition assistance and Whistler Waldorf works hard to make its program accessible. Students and families participating in the school have access to opportunities they may not otherwise be able to afford in Whistler (i.e. student camping trips, participation in sport teams like basketball and ultimate). Not all families can afford the classic Whistler activities of skiing and mountain biking, and Whistler Waldorf offers options that can meet different needs and interests. Additionally, programs like the Sea to Sky Youth Orchestra, which is run at the Waldorf School, make shared learning opportunities available to young people from the entire community.
Many staff and families have moved to Whistler specifically because of the Waldorf school, a globally recognized educational movement. Their presence enriches our community, both through the diverse work skills and engagement in the community. The Waldorf community (like many individuals in Whistler) is exceptionally engaged, well-educated, and has a direct impact on the broader community through its professional and volunteer capacities. A few examples of community engagement that come to mind are coaching youth sports, mentorships, search and rescue, volunteer firefighters, local musical and artistic groups, trail-building, environmental initiatives, and much more. Displacing Waldorf families and employees, and their contributions (as noted above), would have a negative ripple effect across many spheres of the broader Whistler community.
There is an extreme need for daycare in Whistler, and the Waldorf School (in its two locations) provides this important service. Many families already are moving away from the area due to the lack of daycare opportunities.
Attracting and retaining a variety of educational opportunities, businesses, services, etc enriches any community. In my hometown of Burlington, ON, councilors realized this and worked actively to support the Waldorf school there in finding land and building a purpose built school that directly benefits the community and excels in many areas. The Whistler Waldorf school board has sought out a variety of options for land and building, and has faced significant challenges (as do many local not for profits). With time, collaboration and/or support from the RMOW, the Whistler Waldorf School has the potential to be an even greater asset to the community.
Beyond global connections through the broader Waldorf movement, Whistler Waldorf students are connected to our local community in countless ways, such as volunteering at the food bank, trail-building, work placements, and much more.
In my past decade in Whistler, I have seen numerous not-for-profit, arts groups, sports groups, dance studios, yoga studios, etc, close down due to lack of space and funding. This is an inherent challenge of living in a pricey, world-class resort community. Yet for a true world-class experience, community members and visitors need a variety of activities, employment and educational options. My dream is for the Whistler Waldorf School to be supported in collaborating with other not-for-profits, artists, yoga studios, etc in creating a purpose-built space that serves students, families and community members. This space could be used by the school during the school day, and on evenings, and weekends by many other groups, in a way that maximizes thoughtful use of space, community involvement, and the diverse opportunities that make Whistler a world-class community. With support and vision from the mayor and council, this is an achievable goal that would immensely benefit Whistler for generations to come.
Thank you for seriously reconsidering how to actively support the Whistler Waldorf School in its continued capacity to contribute to our community.
