Back to School Info for 2026-2027
We're looking forward to a fantastic new school year! Below is information to help you get ready for 2026-2027.
All items pertain to all families. Please review the forms to ensure you have the most current information on file for your family. You can update your current information in the Parent Portal.
Classroom assignments and teacher welcomes were communicated by teachers on Friday, August 7th.
The Walden School's Official 2026-2027 Calendar All school events are listed here and may be subject to change as events warrant.
Who to contact for 2026-2027 Helpful points-of-contact to get all your questions answered!
To access the Parent Portal:1. Go to thewaldenschool.org and click on Parent Portal at the top of the screen.
You can also bookmark this link for easy access! The Parent Portal is found on the top right of Walden's homepage.
School Directory: You can access Walden's school directory by logging into the Parent Portal. The School Directory is now updated to 2026-2027.
1. Under School on the left-hand side, select Directory.
2. You can access a list of individual student [parent] contact information, search by name, or sort by Class in the drop-down menu.
Classroom Packets and Summer Work
Primary Procedures (Preschool & Kindergarten)
Primary Philosophy (Preschool & Kindergarten)
Grade 3-4-5 Summer Work Letter
*Toddler Class information is forthcoming and will be sent to enrolled Toddler parents when available.
Mandatory Information & Medical Records
Walden complies with Rose Tree Media School District and Pennsylvania Department of Human Services guidelines. Please read screening descriptions and attendance requirements, and complete state-mandated medical forms.
Mandated Examinations
Physical examinations are required on original entry into school.
Dental examinations are required on original entry into school and in grade 3.
Student Physical Form (All Kindergarten and Elementary School students)
Vaccination Requirements (
Allergy Management Checklist
Click here for Mandatory Department of Human Services (DHS) Forms. All Toddler and Extended Day students MUST complete these forms before August 31, 2026.
You can fill out these forms digitally by opening the PDF in "Preview" and selecting "Fill Form" from the menu bar.
A printout of immunizations, signed by your child's physician, can be stapled to the health form.
If your child needs medication administered during the day, fill out the Student Medication Authorization form.
Extended Day Program
The Extended Day Contract for 2026-2027 is available. All forms must be completed and submitted to ED@thewaldenschool.org by the first day of school. A child cannot attend Extended Day if these forms are not completed. If you ever plan to use Extended Day for drop-in service, you should also complete these forms. Any questions should be directed to the Extended Day Coordinator, MJ Blogusewski.
7:30-8:30 a.m. & 3:00-5:30 p.m. |Hourly rate is $16.00.
What is Walden’s Extended Day Program?
Our Extended Day Program is optional for families seeking additional care beyond the standard school day. It is available for all enrolled students and designed to align with the values and approach that make Walden’s Montessori-based education unique. The program runs from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m and in the afternoon 3 until 5:30 p.m. providing an extended block of time for students to continue engaging in meaningful activities and participate in structured enrichment opportunities.
register for extended day
Key Features of the Extended Day Program:
- Hands-on Learning and Activities: Students will continue to explore and engage with Montessori principles in a calm, thoughtful environment that mirrors the school’s regular day. This includes independent work time, outdoor exploration, and opportunities for creative expression.
- The program also includes planned activities, such as arts and crafts, music, movement, and nature-based exploration. When the weather allows, we spend most of our afternoons outside.
- Snack Time: A light snack will be provided; you’re welcome to pack additional food for your child in their bookbag.
Please note that families who drop off their child before 7:30 a.m. or pick up after 5:30 p.m. will be charged a $25 late fee for the first 10 minutes. An additional $25 fee will be assessed for every 15-minute interval (or portion thereof) that a child remains after 5:30 p.m.
After School Programs
We’re excited to offer a variety of after-school physical activities starting in mid-September. Each program is billed through FACTS (similar to tuition). Please note: no refunds will be issued for missed classes or cancellations.
Registration for Extended Day and After-School Programs is open. Extended Day has no capacity limit, but After-School Activities are capped at 10-20 students depending on activity, and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis—so don’t wait.
Mondays- SPARK with Lauren O'Doherty (Summer Program Director)
Science, Play, And Robot Kids
- SPARK is a hands-on STEM club for students in Kindergarten through Grade 5 that encourages curiosity, creativity, and collaborative problem-solving. Through age-appropriate STEM challenges, coding, robotics, and design activities, students will explore how the digital world connects to the world around them. Each session gives students opportunities to ask questions, test ideas, work together, learn from mistakes, and create something of their own. Along the way, they’ll build skills in logic, communication, design thinking, and innovation. SPARK is about more than learning how to code or build a robot. It’s about helping children become confident, resilient, creative problem-solvers who aren’t afraid to ask questions, take things apart, try something new, and find a better way forward.
- Grades K–5 | Mondays | 3:00–4:15 PM
- First 8-week session begins September 21, 2026
- $225 per student | 10–15 students
- Registration
Tuesdays- Zumbini with Tai (Taisha Bartolomei, owner of Harmony Kids Playhouse)
- Zumbini is a fun, music-filled program designed especially for our Primary students. Combining music, movement, and play, children will sing, dance, and explore rhythm through engaging activities designed for young learners. Led in a playful, age-appropriate environment, Zumbini encourages children to build confidence, coordination, listening skills, and a love of movement, all while having a great time with friends.
- Primary P1–P5 | Tuesdays | 3:00–3:45 PM
- First 8-week session begins Tuesday, September 22, 2026
- $175 per student | Limited to 10 students
- Registration
Wednesdays- Walden Moves with Kate Trotter, Walden Primary Teacher
- Walden Moves is an 8-week movement and athletics program designed to help young children build confidence, coordination, strength, and a love of being active. Through age-appropriate games, movement activities, and introductory sports skills, students will have fun while developing teamwork, body awareness, and gross motor skills. Walden Moves is a fun, active way for children to keep moving, build new skills, and learn to enjoy being active.
- Primary P1-P4 | Wednesdays | 3:00–4:15 PM
- First 8-week session begins Wednesday, September 23, 2026
- $225 per student | Limited to 10 students
- Registration
Lunch Program
Walden partners with Pinnochio's Pizza to offer lunch five days a week. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, we offer a rotating menu featuring a balanced, boxed-style lunch. Tuesdays and Thursdays will be pizza days. Our lunch program is offered every school day with the exception of half days.
Lunch ordering takes place through Walden’s Parent Portal. The menu for September is published. Step-by-Step ordering instructions are on this PDF.
Transportation & Busing
Walden registers students for bus transportation each spring, and eligibility/schedule information may be verified with your local school district. Please always advise the bus driver or office if transportation is not needed. Please communicate transportation changes (bus, car, unauthorized pick-up person, etc.) clearly to your children before arriving at school, and specific changes should be put in writing and delivered directly to classroom teachers. For an emergency change in transportation plans, please notify the school office.
Parent Volunteer Opportunities
Walden Parent Ambassadors
The Walden Parent Ambassadors (PAs) meet on the first Wednesday of every month to plan, organize, and support various exciting volunteer initiatives. Getting involved will build connections with other parents, create lasting memories with your child, and foster a strong sense of community at Walden!
Key Volunteer Initiatives: (Dates available on School Calendar)
● Trunk or Treat: Be part of the team that organizes a safe, fun Halloween event for the kids in the school parking lot. It's a great opportunity to get creative and have a blast.
● Pajama Bingo: Help host a family-friendly bingo night at the Delco Bar Assoc. Volunteers outside the PA group are recruited through Sign Up Genius.
● Thank You Gifts: Your help in pulling monies from classroom parents to support the Teacher Appreciation Fund for holiday gifts, end-of-year thank-yous, and other “nice to have” initiatives throughout the year is invaluable. Your contribution will be deeply appreciated and will make a significant difference.
● Teacher Appreciation Week: Volunteer to show gratitude to faculty/staff with cards, treats, and special surprises throughout the week. We use Sign Up Genius to involve more parents.
● End-of-Year Picnics: Help plan and organize class picnics to celebrate the school year’s end.
● Bid, Sip & Celebrate Gala: Help recruit volunteers, secure auction items, and support our largest fundraiser, the BSC Gala, with planning, setup, and more.
● Random Acts of Kindness Week: Join this event to spread kindness and good cheer throughout the school community in partnership with the School Counselor.
Why Join?
● Build friendships with other parents and create memories.
● Foster a strong sense of community at Walden.
● Set a positive example of active engagement for your child.
Your involvement makes a lasting impact on the Walden community! And many hands make for light work! Parent Ambassadors work closely with our Director of Communications & Development, Erika Siegfried, who provides guidance, support, and resources to ensure the success of our initiatives. esiegfried@thewaldenschool.org