Inspiring Life-long Learning for Over 25 Years
Finding Courage at Michaelmas
Our students recently celebrated Michaelmas, a cherished Waldorf tradition that encourages courage, perseverance, compassion, and service to others.
As the days grow shorter and autumn settles in, Michaelmas reminds us to cultivate our inner light and find the strength to meet life’s challenges. Inspired by the story of Saint Michael and the dragon, the festival invites children to explore what it means to overcome fear and stand up for what is right. The dragon symbolizes the obstacles we encounter, both in the world around us and within ourselves.
This year’s celebration brought those ideas to life through storytelling, music, movement, and shared experiences. Our second graders completed their Saints and Heroes block with the story of Saint George and the Dragon, another traditional tale of courage closely connected to Michaelmas. Students across the grades participated in singing, performances, and feats of strength and courage. Fifth graders created an obstacle course for our Early Childhood children, giving them an opportunity to practice bravery, determination, and confidence with the encouragement of older schoolmates.
In our Early Childhood classrooms, the season came alive through meaningful work and imaginative play. Children polished and chopped apples for applesauce, prepared bread, and explored color and creativity through painting. A visit from a magnificent dragon brought an extra bit of excitement to the festivities!
The spirit of Michaelmas extends beyond the celebration itself. Our annual food drive continues throughout October, inviting families to contribute nonperishable groceries, baby care supplies, and personal hygiene items for our local food pantry. At the end of the collection, students will help deliver the donations. Through this shared effort, children experience another important expression of courage: recognizing the needs of others and taking action to help.
Through these experiences, our students discover that courage isn’t only found in heroic stories. It grows through attempting something difficult, helping someone else, working together, and meeting each new challenge with determination.
