Parents exploring their school choices in the Comox Valley will have a new option when a new school opens this fall.

The Saltwater School, with Waldorf-inspired education, will hold an open house in its newly purchased building this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Families, the surrounding community and local businesses are invited to join in the fun and celebration at 2311 Rosewall Cres. in the Tintown area of Courtenay.

The school鈥檚 inception began with a handful of hard-working parents who had a vision. They wanted to create a Waldorf-style school for their children.

鈥淚nitially my motivation was just for my son, but now my vision is much broader. I feel very lucky to be involved with the Saltwater School and all the great people who have made this school a reality,鈥� says Michael Vincent, board member.

The open house will be a celebration to mark this milestone in the transformation of turning vision into reality. Since purchasing their new school building in Tintown, the board and other supporters have begun the process of preparing for the start of school in September.

Preparations include significant earthquake and fire safety upgrades to the building, formerly known as the Wellness Centre. To meet the stringent requirements for the school, the board is working with their architect, engineers and the City of Courtenay to meet approved standards and guidelines.

What gifts does the Saltwater school have to offer families? Saltwater teachers design their lessons to inspire a love of learning by engaging children鈥檚 senses, feelings and thoughts at each stage of their development.

They do this by integrating academic subjects with art, movement, music and gardening. Teachers view children鈥檚 play as their 鈥渨ork鈥� and essential in order for children to grow and learn. Languages and practical skills like woodworking, knitting and sewing round out the education each child will receive at the Saltwater School.

鈥淭his is an education that gives room for, and encourages, each individual's unique capacities,鈥� says Grade1/2 teacher Rebecca Watkin.

This fall, parents can register their children for pre-school, kindergarten, and Grades 1 and 2.  A parent and tot program is also available for children up to the age of five.

鈥淥ur goal is to expand the school up to Grade 8 over the following years,鈥� says Watkin.

On open house day, staff and board members will be on hand to answer questions and give tours of the new school. This family event will include a welcoming ceremony and refreshments at noon.

For more information about the Saltwater School and Waldorf education, check http://saltwaterschool.com.

鈥� Saltwater School