Hundred Hills School, a new Waldorf-based private nonprofit school for preschool through fourth grade, is set to open this fall in Buellton. Founded by local native Whitney Stevenson-Chanana and her husband Sundeep Chanana, along with experienced Waldorf educators, the school embraces the holistic educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner. This approach emphasizes the development of the whole child—intellectually, artistically, physically, emotionally, and spiritually—through a curriculum that balances academic rigor with experiential and creative learning. The school aims to serve the Santa Ynez Valley community by offering an alternative education option focused on imagination, creativity, and emotional intelligence.
The Chananas secured a site on Dairyland Road with a five-year land lease approved by the Buellton City Council, with plans for a permanent campus thereafter. Co-head Chinyelu Kunz, a longtime Waldorf educator and parenting author, joined the initiative after relocating to the area. The school is currently enrolling for fall 2025 and hosting free family events over the summer to build community engagement. The founders are enthusiastic about the collaborative effort that has brought the school to life and are committed to fostering a lasting Waldorf community in the Valley. More information is available on their website and social media.
