Torin M. Finser is an educational thinker and consultant whose work delves into organizational dynamics and leadership development within educational contexts. He draws upon extensive practical experience, including his time at the Rudolf Steiner School and as a facilitator for educators, to inform his writing. His books, translated into numerous languages, explore the deeper dimensions of the learning process and the spiritual aspects of schooling. Finser's approach offers inspiration for educational innovation and for cultivating integrity in organizations.
Torin Finser writes that parables involve "looking down" (or out) to find an often-overlooked object, and then "looking up" to the eternal truth that can be brought down to children. How can we do both? Can we teach our children to see not only what is on the desks before them, but also what surrounds them in nature and in circles above them in the starry heavens and beyond? Parables may help us!
"To achieve great things two things are needed; a plan and not quite enough time." -Leonard Bernstein "Leaders must encourage their organizations to dance to forms of music yet to be heard." -Warren G. Bennis "Leaders are needed to articulate a vision and help an organization galvanize the resources to create a preferred future, one that both inspires and motivates. Leaders bring the right people together to generate new resources, human and financial. New opportunities can then open up." (from the book) A leader is like an orchestra conductor, setting the tempo but knowing that real music will arise only when each member is playing the appropriate instrument and the right part. This book is for leaders and administrators in Waldorf schools, Camphill communities, farms, clinics, and other not-for-profit initiatives. The themes are broad-personal, interpersonal, and organizational-and intended to stimulate discussion and awareness in a way that promotes self-reflection that leads to both inner and professional growth. In the end, we are servant-leaders, doing what needs to be done for the sake of real human beings in our care. We need the tools and insights vital to accomplishing our highest ideals. Leadership is not just a job but also a calling.
This book guides the reader through foundational works of Rudolf Steiner, while asking questions along the way that provoke thought and insight. In part 1, Torin Finser focuses on three essential works: How to Know Higher Worlds: A Modern Path of Initiation (CW 10) Intuitive Thinking as a Spiritual Path: A Philosophy of Freedom (CW 4); and Theosophy: An Introduction to the Spiritual Processes in Human Life and in the Cosmos (CW 9).
Teacher research allows teachers to go beyond intuitive understanding to a level of documented inquiry that can stand the light public scrutiny Dr Finser offers teachers the tools needed to speak out and be heard, empowering their advocacy for educational change.
What does a healthy, successful school look like? Is it all about measurable outcomes, test scores, and pass/fail grades set by the government? Can learning be quantified in short-term measurements or does real learning take years to manifest in a career or biography? All seem to agree that a healthy school is also a community and that community depends on the quality of relationships―chiefly the relationships among students, teachers, and parents. This book features a comprehensive examination of the parent–teacher relationship in all its dimensions, from parent evenings and conferences to communication, conflict, and the life-cycle of parent involvement in their school. In between the chapters on practical advice are sections that consider the issues from a deeper, spiritual dimension. This book is intended to stimulate conversation, self-reflection, and relational practices that awaken community life in and around our schools.
This is a lively, colorful, and absorbing account of a class teacher's journey with his class, from first grade through the eighth grade in a Waldorf school. Straightforward and humorous, School as a Journey provides an excellent introduction to the daily activities of a Waldorf school classroom. Torin Finser―who is now Director of Waldorf Teacher Training at Antioch New England Graduate School―wrote this book especially for parents, prospective parents, and educators who are new to Waldorf education. Filled with pedagogical gems, tips, and resources, School as a Journey will also prove an invaluable resource for those who are currently Waldorf class teachers. For those who wish to delve more deeply into this revolutionary form of education, the author has also included extensive documentation, with references to the works of Rudolf Steiner and of others experienced in Waldorf education. Highly recommended for anyone interested in this revolutionary form of education.