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Meet Us

Within these biographies are represented the strength of the human spirit as evidenced by the dedication, integrity, and perseverance embodied in our faculty, staff, and board members. Also represented is a love for humanity, with all its diverse cultures and perspectives, and a respect for each individual’s stage of development. Additionally, there lives a reverence for our planet, its biodiversity, and life-sustaining gifts. We invite you to meet us here and we look forward to meeting you soon.

Early Childhood Teachers Grades Class Teachers Special Subject Teachers


Administrative Staff

Anna Harp (she/her)

Anna Harp (she/her)

Administrator

“I strongly believe in the importance of the whole-child approach to education, time spent outside in nature, and the Principles of Waldorf Education.”

Anna Harp (she/her)

Anna Harp (she/her)

Administrator

Why I work at AWS

I find the work meaningful and rewarding. I strongly believe in the importance of the whole-child approach to education, time spent outside in nature, and the Principles of Waldorf Education.

What I find most special about AWS

The warm and creative atmosphere.

My life outside of AWS

My husband and I have two amazing children who are AWS alumni, two cats, and several fish. I enjoy reading, crossword puzzles, and spending time in nature.

Education & Training

  • Leading with Spirit (a training program for Waldorf school administrators), Sound Circle Center for Arts and Anthroposophy
  • MSEd in Elementary Education, SUNY Cortland
  • BS in Computer Science, SUNY Brockport
Amy Torres-Watts (she/her)

Amy Torres-Watts (she/her)

Administrative Assistant
Amy Torres-Watts (she/her)

Amy Torres-Watts (she/her)

Administrative Assistant
Pamela Brady (she/her)

Pamela Brady (she/her)

Administrative Assistant Parent-Toddler Teacher

“AWS is a gem of a community. From the moment my family stepped through the doors we found kindness, support, and an armful of friends (and counting!)”

Pamela Brady (she/her)

Pamela Brady (she/her)

Administrative Assistant Parent-Toddler Teacher

Why I work at AWS

I love how Waldorf Schools teach the curriculum, but also how they nurture each child's soul, allowing them to become who they were born to be.

What I find most special about AWS

AWS is a gem of a community. From the moment my family stepped through the doors we found kindness, support, and an armful of friends (and counting!)

My life outside of AWS

My husband, Griffin, children Cormac and Gwendolyn live in West Falls in an 160 year old house full of instruments, yarn, stories and animals. If we are not at home we are most likely canoeing to our favorite camping spot, or sitting on the shores of Lake Ontario at our family's cottage.

Education & Training

  • BA in Biology and Environmental Sciences, Adrian College
Angel Lehner (she/her)

Angel Lehner (she/her)

Chief Financial Officer / Acting Business Mananger

“The energy and enthusiasm that everyone [at AWS] brings to their work is inspiring to me, and I enjoy being a part of it.”

Angel Lehner (she/her)

Angel Lehner (she/her)

Chief Financial Officer / Acting Business Mananger

Why I work at AWS

AWS students are taught to develop a true love of learning, and I appreciate being a lifelong learner myself. The energy and enthusiasm that everyone brings to their work is inspiring to me, and I enjoy being a part of it.

What I find most special about AWS

I admire the dedication of the faculty and staff in the Waldorf method of teaching. Every person at AWS brings a level of energy to their work each and every day.

My life outside of AWS

I live in Chautauqua County, and like to spend time outside. I also work another full-time job for a construction company located in Randolph, NY.

Education & Training

  • MBA w/concentration in Human Resources, Canisius College
  • BS in Accounting / Management, Canisius College
Vicky Lucca (she/her)

Vicky Lucca (she/her)

Admissions Coordinator

“I believe in the value of this education!”

Vicky Lucca (she/her)

Vicky Lucca (she/her)

Admissions Coordinator

Why I work at AWS

I work at Aurora Waldorf school because I believe in the value of this education. I want to support this education movement and help it continue to grow.

What I find most special about AWS

AWS is special for so many reasons! But the students really stand out to me, as they bring so much joy and inspiration to my work. Also, the faculty and staff’s collaborative and collegial nature is truly appreciated.

My life outside of AWS

Outside of AWS I am in my garden or looking for ways to be outdoors as much as possible with my family.

Education & Training

  • MA in Native/Indigenous Studies, University at Buffalo
  • BA in Psychology, Buffalo State College
Lisa Carrow (she/her)

Lisa Carrow (she/her)

Faculty Chair

“I believe that there can be a new outlook for the future of mankind and that this way of educating is a strong factor in its creation.”

Lisa Carrow (she/her)

Lisa Carrow (she/her)

Faculty Chair

Why I work at AWS

I have witnessed the success of this educational approach based on child development. I appreciate working collaboratively with all of the teachers and staff for the benefit of the children in our care. I believe that there can be a new outlook for the future of mankind and that this way of educating is a strong factor in its creation.

Even after decades of working as a Handwork Teacher, I still look forward to every school day and never tire of experimenting with technique and approach so that the students can develop their fine motor ability in an atmosphere of warmth, support and enthusiasm.

What I find most special about AWS

The strong collaboration within the faculty and staff as well as the beautiful campus which offers so much health giving space and beauty.

My life outside of AWS

Winter is my favorite season! I love to ski downhill, cross country ski and snowshoe. I also love to travel and have had the opportunity to see many places in the world. Gardening with a focus on wild edibles and remedies is also a hobby of mine.

Education & Training

  • Applied Arts Program, the Fiber Craft Studio at Sunbridge Institute
  • Handwork as a Healing Art summer program, Sunbridge Institute
  • Numerous Waldorf professional development workshops
Kathryn Lalley (she/her)

Kathryn Lalley (she/her)

Marketing & Communications

"The children and staff develop and reverence for nature and a real sense of connection to the world around them."

Kathryn Lalley (she/her)

Kathryn Lalley (she/her)

Marketing & Communications

Why I work at AWS

I work at Aurora Waldorf school because I am excited and energized to bring the principles and story of Waldorf education to the greater community.

What I find most special about AWS

The connection to and time spent in nature. Students are able to explore and discover their world, and build a connection to and love of their environment.

My life outside of AWS

Outside of AWS I enjoy outdoor adventures and activities with my family and dog. We love farmers' markets, travelling, biking and visiting the beach.

Education & Training

  • BA in Journalism, SUNY Brockport
Stephanie Karsten

Stephanie Karsten

School Chef / Lunch Coordinator

"AWS is a place like no other, this is a full-circle experience for me coming back, and it still feels like home! I am inspired by the enthusiasm, cooperation and authenticity expressed by everyone in this community, and the drive and commitment to educating the students and the betterment of the future."

Stephanie Karsten

Stephanie Karsten

School Chef / Lunch Coordinator

Why I work at AWS

As an AWS graduate, I wanted to give back to the community that helped shape me into the human I am today. I work at AWS because I am able to do what I love everyday: cooking meals and passing on my love and joy for great food, helping nourish the young bodies and minds of our students and community, and assisting and collaborating in the holistic approach that Waldorf takes to educating the whole-child.

What I find most special about AWS

AWS is a magical place that teaches compassion, kindness, collaboration and community. It is special in that each child’s individuality is respected and nurtured so they are able to build a foundation of self-confidence, to live a life of authenticity, courage and love in our ever changing world.

My life outside of AWS

I have many hobbies and things to keep me busy: I love to cook and entertain for my friends and family as well as working on the small cooking business Karsten’s Kitchen I started in 2020. I love music and have quite eclectic taste; I try to take in as much live music and as many concerts as possible! I also love the outdoors and the fact that we have four wonderful seasons here in WNY to enjoy it all, especially hiking, camping, snowboarding, and the beach.