I have great faith in a seed. Convince me that you have a seed there, and I am prepared to expect wonders.” —Henry David Thoreau
A former teacher once said about Waldorf School of Princeton, “We’ve been green since blue met yellow!” In fact, the principles of ecology and sustainability are so deeply ingrained in Waldorf Education, it’s challenging to list all that we do!
It is no coincidence that Rudolf Steiner, the originator of Waldorf Education, also developed biodynamic agriculture, the first systematic approach to organic sustainability. From early childhood through the eighth grade (and beyond), the Waldorf science curriculum has been—and still is—ahead of its time in fostering a love for the natural world and insight into the profound links between earth and humanity.
From the gardening curriculum to community activities, students learn to become stewards of the environments in which they live. In addition, through warmth of heart, clarity of thought, and strength of purpose, Waldorf students are uniquely equipped to address the global challenges facing their generation—issues of renewable energy, climate change, food quality, wildlife conservation, and preserving our natural resources. Waldorf students know inherently that everything is interconnected.
Here are a few examples of what you’ll find at WSP:
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School-wide composting and recycling, with students involved at every level, which has earned WSP the Bronze Award from the National Wildlife Federation’s Eco-Schools USA program
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A close relationship with adjacent Orchard Farm Organics biodynamic farm and CSA
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Community-established living roof, and rain gardens for water conservation
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The Princeton area’s oldest school garden, employing biodynamic methods
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Strategic cultivation of native plants and removal of invasive species
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School-wide commitment to reusable cups, plates, and utensils in the classrooms and offices
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Recognition of our campus by the National Wildlife Federation as a Certified Wildlife Habitat
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Certified by Monarch Watch as a Monarch Waystation for providing sufficient “milkweeds, nectar plants, and shelter for monarchs throughout their annual cycle of reproduction and migration”
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A summer camp that instills ecological ethics and a deep connection to nature in its campers and their families
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A focus on maintaining existing buildings rather than building new ones, such as our Crib Barn and Red Barn classroom
If you feel compelled to help shape or lead any of our green initiatives, please contact volunteer@princetonwaldorf.org, with the subject heading GREEN.