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Sunrise School of Miami, the region’s only Waldorf-inspired early childhood, elementary and middle school, has announced the launch of its capital campaign: “Growing Toward Our Future.”
The initiative seeks to raise $14 million to establish a permanent campus that will serve as a long-term home for its growing community of students and families.
For nearly two decades, Sunrise School of Miami, a 501(c)3 non-profit school, has offered South Florida families an alternative educational experience — one that nurtures the whole child through academics, art, movement and nature.
Founded in 2005 by three parents and a Waldorf teacher, the school has remained committed to the vision of Dr. Rudolf Steiner, whose philosophy emphasizes hands-on, developmentally appropriate, and creative learning. Today, it remains Miami-Dade County’s only Waldorf-inspired school.
“Every day holds a touch of wonder,” said Dennis Rodrigues, chair of the board of directors.
“But we know that it takes more than wonder to nurture vibrant young people. This campaign is about creating a lasting home for the values that make Sunrise School so special — community, imagination, and lifelong learning.”
A new chapter for Sunrise School of Miami
Sunrise School of Miami currently operates in rented facilities at 14920 SW 67 Ave., Palmetto Bay, FL 33158, but with its existing site being sold for redevelopment, the school must relocate by 2026. After an extensive search, the board and a group of dedicated parents secured a land lease on three acres of lush, undeveloped land in a desirable and growing neighborhood of Miami-Dade County. The school also will share access to an adjacent 2.7 acres, creating a total of 5.7 acres of green, natural space for children to learn and grow.
The new campus, designed in harmony with anthroposophical principles central to Waldorf-inspired education, will include light-filled classrooms, outdoor learning areas, a Kinderhaus for early childhood, and a community kitchen and performance space. The environment is designed to encourage creativity, collaboration, and connection to nature — hallmarks of the Waldorf approach.
“This is more than a building project; it’s an investment in the future of education in Miami,” Rodrigues said. “We’re creating a space where learning, art, and community can thrive together, and where children can grow into compassionate, confident individuals.”
About the Campaign
The Capital Campaign aims to raise $14 million to fund:
• Phase 1: Site preparation, construction of two main school buildings, playgrounds, parking, and landscaping ($5 million).
• Phase 2: Campus expansion, and additional performance spaces for arts, eurythmy, and school events ($8 million).
• Reserves and Sustainability: Long-term maintenance, staff expansion, and financial stability ($1 million).
Once completed, the new campus will serve over 220 students and more than 30 faculty and staff members, ensuring the continuation of Waldorf-inspired education in Miami for decades to come.
An invitation to the community
Sunrise School of Miami invites the local community to support the campaign through donations, partnerships, and advocacy.
“It takes a village to raise a child — and to build a school,” Rodrigues added. “We’re calling on our neighbors, local leaders, and families across South Florida to join us in shaping this next chapter for our children.”
To learn more about the Capital Campaign or make a contribution, visit sunriseschoolofmiami.org or send email to development@sunriseschoolofmiami.org.
About Sunrise School of Miami
Founded in 2005, Sunrise School of Miami is Miami-Dade County’s only Waldorf-inspired school, serving Early Childhood through Middle School students. Its mission is to cultivate each child’s intellectual, emotional, and creative potential through a holistic education that blends rigorous academics with artistic and experiential learning. Sunrise is a member of the Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America (WECAN).
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