Help Mr. Forrest Enrich Our Community

Many of you probably know Mr. Forrest already, or at least recognize his face.

He's the guitar accompanist at every school concert and event. He’s the teacher that students seek out after school for help with practicing music or an interview for a class project. He's the guy that mediates tether ball and four square conflicts, starts a sewing club, and cooks nourishing meals for the students - all in a day of after school programming.

I think you know the kind of person I’m talking about.

There are many people that touch our lives in a school community. The kind of unsung heroes that we see everyday, who will make a great effort to be of service to others. Meet Mr. Forrest. You may know him or have heard his name -- he is on a lifelong path of helping others, and now, he needs your help.

When I started helping Mr. Forrest put this fundraiser together -- he was unsure of himself. Deeply ingrained in his life narrative was a sense of “I can’t” - in the form of asking for help, in his self-esteem reflecting life’s challenges. What I have learned from teachers, parents, and friends of Mr. Forrest's school community is that he in fact can, and has already made such an impact on those around him. Including one of the stories that inspired furthering his education. See below the story of the second grade class and Mr. Forrest’s song, “Breathing.”

This is a fundraiser to help Mr. Forrest finish his (second!) three-year certification to help enrich his presence as a teacher in Waldorf community. He completed his 3-year Waldorf teacher training in 2021, and now he is close to his goal of completing a 3-year certificate program in Anthroposophic Psychology.

Mr. Forrest will need funds to cover his third and final year of the the 3-year training in Anthroposophic Psychology. He has made it two years so far, but was faced with extraordinary financial setbacks because of family events. This is the funding breakdown for Mr. Forrest’s last year of the program: $2850 in travel fees (plane tickets + ground transportation), $2250 to cover a loss of income due to missed work, $1920 towards three seminar fees, $810 for lodging, and $600 books and material fees.

These testimonials and letters we have received allow everyone to meet Mr. Forrest, not just the friendly face, but through the experience of beloved members of our school community. Your support counts, in the form of donation or sharing this page with others!

Endless gratitude,

Maya Campos

Waldorf Early Childhood Teacher

Dear Friends, Family, and Supporters of Read Forrest,

I am reaching out to you with great admiration and a heartfelt request to support Read Forrest, an extraordinary Waldorf teacher at Davis Waldorf School. Many of you may know Read from his various roles within our school community—as the Aftercare Coordinator, a substitute teacher, a dedicated music educator and accompanist, and a caring steward of our grounds. However, beyond these roles, Read is a true healer who deeply connects with both children and colleagues alike.

Having had the privilege of working closely with Read as both a colleague and a parent of a second-grader in his class and aftercare program, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact he has on our children. Reed's understanding, kindness, and gentle spirit create a nurturing environment where children can truly be themselves and express their creativity freely.

One poignant example of Read's influence was during the challenging times of COVID-19, when he introduced a beautiful and healing song called "Breathing" to the children of his second grade class. This song resonated deeply with them, offering a message of connection that transcended physical distance and isolation. Its lyrics spoke of unity with Mother Earth and each other—a message that was particularly meaningful during those turbulent times and continues to resonate with the children today.

Now, Read is embarking on a new educational journey to deepen his understanding and practice of Anthroposophical Psychology—a path that aligns perfectly with his innate ability to heal and nurture. By supporting Read in this endeavor, we can help him continue to bring his healing touch and magical presence to our school and beyond.

Your generous contributions will directly support Read's educational pursuits, allowing him to further enrich our community with his wisdom, compassion, and dedication. Together, let's ensure that Read can continue his transformative work and inspire countless more children and adults alike.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to support Read Forrest in his educational journey and his mission to bring healing and connection to the world.

With gratitude and warm regards,

Jessica Efstratis

Waldorf Parent and 6th Grade Teacher

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to express my strong support for Mr. Forrest, who is seeking financial assistance to complete his Anthroposophic Psychology certification course. Mr. Forrest has been an invaluable part of our Waldorf school community, working diligently in the aftercare program and assisting in the music program.

Mr. Forrest has demonstrated exceptional patience, kindness, and love towards all the children, including my daughter, Marly. When Marly was struggling with her chosen music piece for her 8th grade solo performance at the spring concert, Mr. Forrest's support was instrumental. Despite the challenges Marly faced, and the suggestion from her music teacher to switch to an easier piece, Mr. Forrest volunteered to meet with her several times a week before school to tutor her.

His patience, support, and guidance enabled Marly to not only complete the project but also perform the piece successfully. This experience was a testament to overcoming obstacles, and it was only possible because of Mr. Forest's unwavering dedication and encouragement.

I firmly believe that if Mr. Forrest is given the opportunity to participate and complete this certification course, his contributions to the school and the community will be significantly amplified. His continued growth and success will undoubtedly benefit our school and the wider community.

Thank you for considering this request.

Sincerely,

Justin Dote and Maia Gunther

Waldorf Parents