Montessori/Waldorf/Non-traditional school vs Public school

I read an article yesterday in the NYT regarding the importance of play in learning and some of the issues with the emphasis currently place on standardized tests. I agree that there is too much of an emphasis on test taking (memorizing and spitting out info) and not enough on learning, play, and especially learning to think. Kindergarten is nothing like what it used to be.

I've been thinking about the type of education I'd like my DS to have and don't want him to be burdened with an abundance of test taking early on as a measure of skills. I don't believe the tests measure what they supposedly are designed to measure (just look at the SAT, virtually meaningless) anyway.

So, I'm wondering about other types of school - montessori, waldorf, and others i just don't know about.

What are people's thoughts on what I'm saying? Does anyone have an opinion on these other types of school? I was educated in public school so I'm all for them if I feel comfortable that its best for my DS. What is Kindergarten like nowadays?

TIA!

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/02/opinion/02engel.html?ref=opinion

Re: Montessori/Waldorf/Non-traditional school vs Public school

my twns are going to motessori, I love how they implant finish what you start etc/

Re: Montessori/Waldorf/Non-traditional school vs Public school

My DD is in Montessori preschool and we have opted to keep her in Montessori long term. So long as it's a good fit we will do the same for my DS as well. I am less than impressed with public schools.