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Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
Communication with the Waldorf School of Tampa Bay is one-way. You will be told what to do, how to do it and when to do it. If you question any aspect of these instructions, you risk having your name put on the expulsion list.
Sugar-Coated Abuse
With only the tiniest provocation, communication with the Waldorf School of Tampa Bay turns threatening and abusive. You will be told, artfully, that you are a bad mother. You will be told that 'the school' knows what is best for your child. You will be told that if you don't behave, you risk being reminded that the school might not be a good fit for your family.
The only acceptable way for parents to engage in the Waldorf School of Tampa Bay is to do the grunt work of implementing festivals and school events. You will cook, you will clean, you will move chairs around in the sweltering heat. You will serve food and clean up after the members of the administration and board. See the Decision Making Matrix here.
It is unacceptable to ask any questions about governance or decision making. It is equally unacceptable to request why the responsibilities that the school has outlined for itself in the contract are not being honored.
From the school's Recommitment Agreement: "...there is no parental right of access to, representation in, or involvement in the school's decision making bodies, processes or meetings. School meetings are not open to the public or the parent body."
The atmosphere at the school is utterly lacking in warmth and is instead permeated with a sense of fear and control. You are reminded on a regular basis that your family is a disposable asset. Even private parent conversations are tinged with the fear of being reported. "Can I trust this person". "Did I say the wrong thing?" "Will I be called in by the administration for a one-on-one belittling session?"
Once you sign your enrollment agreement with the Waldorf School of Tampa Bay and the withdrawal period has closed, you will owe the school 100% of your yearly tuition. This remains true even if the school , unilaterally and without cause, expels your child on the first day of school.
You will be told that your participation in the school fundraiser each year is mandatory. Your minimum contribution will be $500 on top of your tuition.
If you are expelled, the school will delay reporting progress reports or will withhold teacher evaluations altogether which will make it difficult for you to find another school placement for your child.
If the school detects any potential problems with your child, they reserve the right to impose a requirement that you seek specific therapies in order to maintain enrollment. These therapies can, and have, cost thousands of dollars.
The only legal rights you have in your dealings with the Waldorf School of Tampa Bay is in your contract. You do not have freedom of speech. You do not have the right to peaceably assemble.
You will sign this contract at your initial enrollment and then be bound to any future changes the school decides to make. It is an open ended contract for the school. They keep it as a living, digital copy and make changes at will without parent notification. Please read it carefully today and everyday, because you are bound by whatever it contains and any future changes that will be made.