Welcome to Sun Mountain Community School
Sun Mountain Community School is a Waldorf-inspired, tuition-free, public charter school that utilizes developmentally appropriate holistic education to nurture the body, mind and heart of each student.
Sun Mountain Community School Mission
Sun Mountain Community School (SMCS) is a community of families and educators dedicated to cultivating the intellectual, social, emotional, physical and consciousness capacities of the developing human being. Our mission is to educate the whole child, using an age-appropriate approach to content and skills based on principles of Waldorf Education and the work of Rudolf Steiner. Our students engage in rigorous academics, develop connections to the natural world and moral discernment, and achieve an appreciation of themselves and others.
Curriculum & Pedagogy
Early Childhood
Our Early Childhood classrooms offer a warm, home-like environment where young children learn through rhythm, movement, and meaningful hands-on experiences. Each day unfolds with a gentle flow of creative play, songs, stories, and time in nature—nurturing curiosity, confidence, and the joy of discovery.
Grades
As children move into the grades, learning unfolds through rich stories, art, and discovery. Fairy tales grow into history, science, and geography, guided by imagination and clear thinking. Each year deepens understanding as students observe, question, and create—building knowledge through beauty, logic, and purpose on their path toward adolescence.
Unique Features
At Sun Mountain Community School, learning grows through creativity, curiosity, and meaningful work. Our approach honors the whole child—head, heart, and hands—by blending academics with art, movement, and practical skills. Each day invites imagination and purpose, nurturing confidence, joy, and a lasting love of learning.
Admissions & Enrollment
Sun Mountain Community School (SMCS) is a tuition-free public charter school offering a Waldorf-inspired education. When there are more applicants than spaces available, we hold a lottery to determine enrollment in a fair and transparent way. Families are encouraged to learn about our philosophy, visit the campus, and connect with teachers and staff to gain a deeper understanding of the SMCS experience. Rooted in respect, curiosity, and community engagement, Sun Mountain fosters lifelong learners who are confident, compassionate, and capable of meeting the challenges of the future.
Anti-Racism & Anti-Oppression (ARAO)
Sun Mountain Community School is committed to fostering a learning environment where every child and family is treated with dignity, respect, and belonging. We stand against all forms of racism, discrimination, and oppression, and we work to cultivate a community grounded in equity, compassion, and understanding.
As part of this commitment, we align with the State of New Mexico’s Black Education Act, which supports culturally and linguistically responsive education for all students.
Reporting Concerns
Students, families, staff, and community members may report incidents of racism or racial discrimination through the State of New Mexico’s Anti-Racism/Anti-Oppression (ARAO) Portal. This tool ensures that concerns are formally documented and reviewed.
https://web.ped.nm.gov/
We also encourage families to reach out directly to the school so we can listen, respond, and work together toward understanding and resolution.
McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act
Sun Mountain Community School is committed to ensuring that every child has access to a stable and supportive education. Under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, students experiencing housing instability—including temporary housing, shared living situations due to hardship, shelters, motels, or other transitional arrangements—may qualify for educational support and services. Our school works compassionately and confidentially with families to help remove barriers and support student success.
Book a Campus Tour Today!
Campus Tours are offered on Thursdays at 10 am and Fridays at 2 pm. Currently these are group tours, so keep in mind that you might not be the only family touring on the day of your choice.
Blog & Latest News
Knitting: A Hands-On Lesson in Patience and Creativity
Knitting: A Hands-On Lesson in Patience and CreativityIn Waldorf education, knitting is far more than a handcraft—it’s a deeply meaningful developmental practice. As children loop…
Honoring Childhood’s Pace
Honoring Childhood’s PaceChildhood is not a race—it’s a sacred unfolding. In a world that often urges children to move faster, achieve more, and grow up…
The Nine-Year Change: A Milestone of Growth
Understanding the Nine-Year ChangeAround the age of nine, many children undergo a profound internal transformation—what Waldorf educators refer to as “the nine-year change.” During this…
26 Puesta del Sol
Santa Fe, NM 87508
(505) 913-7477
