Give to What Inspires YOU

This Giving Tuesday, we’re celebrating the many reasons our community chooses to give. Through words, images, and stories, you’ll see how individual inspirations come together to create a vibrant, thriving experience for every student.

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Why do Members of Our Community Give?

Equity is what makes the CWS community whole. It ensures every student belongs, learns from exceptional teachers, and thrives alongside inspiring their peers.

Dan and Kristin Hoffmann give to equity because it strengthens not only their own children’s experience but the entire school, funding programs, resources, and opportunities that make learning richer and classrooms stronger. This Giving Tuesday, your gift helps sustain a school where every student has the chance to grow, explore, and succeed.

Freedom is at the heart of our mission—giving students the confidence, curiosity, and space to explore who they are and shape their own lives. Dana Hegedorn, our Advancement Director, gives to support this freedom.

As an independent school, CWS relies on our community to sustain the curriculum, programs, and values that make this possible. This Giving Tuesday, every gift helps preserve the independence that allows our students to learn, grow, and thrive.

Gratitude is at the heart of everything we do at CWS. It is seen in the joy of children discovering their own voice, in friendships that grow year after year, and in a community that lifts one another up.

John Leonard and Katie Palmer give to gratitude because they have seen their sons thrive academically, socially, and personally in this supportive environment. This Giving Tuesday, your gift helps sustain a school where families belong, children flourish, and the community grows stronger through shared care and con

Kindness is more than a value at CWS. It is a way of being that shows in how teachers guide students to care for one another, in friendships that blossom over the years, and in lessons that teach compassion for our city, nature, and the world.

Ellen and Jim Berger give to kindness because they have seen how it shapes the lives of students and strengthens our school community. This Giving Tuesday, your gift helps sustain a school where children grow with confidence, empathy, and a sense of responsibility for the world around them.

Every student deserves the chance to thrive. From classroom projects to field trips and community life, these shared experiences shape how students learn, grow, and connect with the world. The Community Fund makes this possible, ensuring all students can fully participate, regardless of financial need.

When families and staff give, they strengthen programs, support teachers, and create opportunities that last a lifetime. Giving sustains a culture of equity and belonging for generations to come.

Togetherness shapes CWS. It’s the families, teachers, alumni, and friends who come together to support, celebrate, and inspire students every day. This sense of community doesn’t end with graduation—it connects generations and strengthens the school as a whole.

Former parent and Board Member Valerie Colis gives to togetherness, knowing the care and commitment it takes to raise a child and build a community that nurtures growth.

Every gift ensures that students experience a village that celebrates, supports, and grows with them. Giving strengthens this spirit of togetherness and keeps CWS a place where community thrives.

Supporting the greater good starts here.

Waldorf education helps students grow into thoughtful, capable, and compassionate individuals. Every day, teachers and the CWS community guide students to explore, learn, and develop the skills and values that let them make a positive impact.

When families give, they ensure all students have access to these transformative experiences. Their support strengthens classrooms, programs, and teachers, helping students thrive at CWS and beyond.

Even after graduation, alumni parents like Mike Rosenthal continue to give, knowing their support helps future students leave the world better than they found it. Every gift contributes to the greater good.

Why Giving Tuesday matters


Each day, we see our students grow into creative, curious, and compassionate individuals, engaging their sense of wonder, developing self-reliance, and filling our halls with joy, love, and light. Their growth reflects the supportive, vibrant community that surrounds them.

Through the month of November, we’ll be releasing videos highlighting remarkable members of the CWS community and sharing why they give. Our first video features Advancement Director Dana Hegedorn, who shares her story and why Giving Tuesday is so important.

Their stories show how Giving Tuesday helps our school remain independent, progressive, and more vital than ever—ensuring every student can continue to thrive, explore, and make a positive impact in the world.

what is the community fund?

The Community Fund is at the heart of it all. It bridges the gap between tuition and the true cost of a Waldorf education, supporting the daily needs of our students. From undyed organic wool in handwork classes to lab-quality chemistry supplies and professional-grade theater equipment, every contribution helps provide the tools and experiences that make our classrooms come alive.