Every year in the autumn during harvest season, The Waldorf School of Princeton celebrates Michaelmas with its students. In the Celtic tradition, Michael represents the unconquered hero, fighting against evil and the powers of darkness. He is a model for valor and courage. We celebrate with an array of harvest fruits and "dragon bread," physical challenges for the children, and the telling of legends and myths.
Michaelmas began with a grade school assembly of singing, poetry, and an inspiring story of a knight whose shield shone brightly when he remained steadfast to his duties even though he was given an undesirable task. Later, students in mixed age groups harvested flowers and vegetables, spread helpful ground eggshells to the compost, and weeded at Mrs. Phinney's farm next door. The goats and chickens enjoyed the fresh greens from the weeded patches. The day closed with fifth and sixth graders throwing javelins and flu flu arrows to fend off the tenacious dragon. In the end, it was Michael who strode forth on his trusty steed to drive the dreaded dragon away.
