Vanessa French
Santa Rosa
Summary
Experienced Waldorf educator with over a decade of guiding children’s emotional, artistic, and intellectual growth through the principles of Anthroposophy. Skilled in weaving storytelling, puppetry, and nature-based learning into daily rhythms, I create classrooms that inspire curiosity, empathy, and resilience. I am dedicated to honoring each child’s individuality, while fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration among families and colleagues.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Preschool Teacher
The Waldorf School of Mendocino County
01.2017 - Current
- Designed and led daily lessons integrating puppetry, oral storytelling, seasonal festivals, and artistic expression.
- Cultivated strong parent partnerships through education evenings, regular communication, and community events.
- Supported children’s social-emotional health with healing deeds and individualized guidance.
- Mentored new teachers in early childhood, aftercare, and specialty classrooms, strengthening faculty collaboration.
- Created nurturing environments that honored individuality while guiding developmental milestones.
Specialty Teacher & Aftercare Coordinator
The Waldorf School of Mendocino County
Ukiah
01.2007 - 01.2020
- Taught large groups (up to 30 students) in creative play, rest and story, beeswax clay modeling, gardening, movement, and group games.
- Substituted across grade levels for main lessons and specialty classes, ensuring continuity of learning.
- Coordinated aftercare programs, fostering safe and engaging environments for mixed-age groups.
Assistant Teacher in Kindergarten and Preschool
Waldorf School of Mendocino County
Ukiah
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Collaborated with lead teachers to deliver Waldorf-inspired circle work, handwork, and creative play.
- Provided individualized support to children across developmental stages.
- Assisted in classroom management and parent communication.
- Assisted lead teacher in planning and implementing lesson plans.
- Collaborated with staff to enhance curriculum development and instructional methods.
Education
Specialization - Early Childhood Education
The West Coast Institute For Studies in Anthroposophy
Vancouver British Colombia 05-2019
completed courses - to be a lead teacher in a licensed program
Mendocino College
Ukiah, CA01-2010
Skills
- Waldorf pedagogy
- Anthroposophy
- Nature-based early childhood education
- Oral storytelling
- Puppetry
- Artistic integration
- Classroom management
- Parent engagement
- Community building
- Curriculum design
- Organizational skills
- Effective communication
- Mentorship
- Team collaboration
- Adaptability
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
- Classroom transitions
Certification
- Waldorf Early Childhood Training Certificate
- HANDLE Neurodevelopmental Movement Training – Levels 1 & 2
- CPR/First Aid – Current
- Mandated Reporter Training – Current
References
- Kelly Austin, 707-485-2969
- Amy Stocker, 707-367-8846
- Debra McCarthy, 707-272-3697
- Ruth Ker, 250-510-8187
- Lynne Newton, 424-645-4060
- Spring Senerchia, 707-513-0938
Professional Development
- Regular participant in Waldorf education conferences and regional study groups
- Completed training in mindfulness practices and social-emotional learning strategies for early childhood classrooms
- Ongoing engagement in Anthroposophical study and professional collaboration
Timeline
Lead Preschool Teacher
The Waldorf School of Mendocino County
01.2017 - Current
Assistant Teacher in Kindergarten and Preschool
Waldorf School of Mendocino County
01.2015 - 01.2017
Specialty Teacher & Aftercare Coordinator
The Waldorf School of Mendocino County
01.2007 - 01.2020
Specialization - Early Childhood Education
The West Coast Institute For Studies in Anthroposophy
completed courses - to be a lead teacher in a licensed program
Mendocino College