About WESE

The Waldorf Education Society of Edmonton (WESE) was founded June 4, 2002. Our mission is to facilitate Waldorf Education in many forms within the City of Edmonton.

To support our community and the growth of Waldorf Education in Edmonton, we operate programs for interested families: Parent-Tot and Nursery school programs, and in Fall 2011, Kindergarten, Grade 1 & 2 in the Waldorf Independent School of Edmonton. We also facilitate adult education through parent study groups, workshops, and support the growth of Waldorf education by holding Annual Festivals and Fundraisers. Most of all, we endeavour to nurture the children of our community through the principles of Waldorf education, which simultaneously supports us as families.

Since 2002, we have increased awareness and encouragement through monthly meetings, newsletters, and networking. We have formed study groups, childcare groups, playgroups, various puppetry and painting programs, and have facilitated the community in meeting together at seasonal festivals.

Board Members

Mandie Abrams, President

Mandie is pleased to join the board in 2010 as the President of WESE. She is happy to contacted on any subject.

Netta Johnson, Vice President

Since joining the board in 2002, she has held the position of President, Vice-President, and Secretary- Treasurer. She creates most of the society's ads and documents, including pamphlets and brochures. She replies to incoming WESE mail, helps with WESE fairs and events. Her fabulous husband Andrew has built websites and cared for their two children, Oliver and Eloise, so she can attend events, reply to emails, and paint and build furniture for classrooms. Along with other WESE board members, she has worked to create the beauty of Waldorf education here in Edmonton, where she had the privilege to attend Park Allen Waldorf school herself in the 80’s.

Tamarah Willis, 2nd Vice-President

Erin Campbell, Treasurer

Kristina Perkins, Secretary

Kristina joined the board in 2010. Kristina is enthusiastic about working to support the development and growth of Waldorf education in Edmonton.

Diana Harrison, Past President, Member-at-large

Diana joined WESE in 2006, and served as President for the last two years. Diana warmly welcomes communication regarding our program.

Heather Derksen, Director

Lana Gilday Member-at-large

Leah Underhay, Festival Co- ordinator

Leah was the head of three volunteer committees last year. As the new director of festivals, she co-ordinates WESE sponsored Waldorf program festivals, such as the Pumpkin Walk, the Winter Fair, and the Mayfair. Her first official festival as Festival Director, the Winter Fair, was a tremendous success!

Julie Yerex, Store Director

Julie’s children have been in our early childhood programs for several years. The Waldorf Store is a great fundraising tool for our school program, and Julie’s work helps raise money for all the special extras which go in our classrooms or support our program.