Lakeside School at Black Kettle Farm

Since our move to Black Kettle in 2007, we have implemented a farm-based program, whose roots grow deeper each year. Our unique setting allows us the opportunity to experience an education based on the Waldorf philosophy in a deep and rich way. From animal husbandry to planting, tending, and harvesting their produce, children experience the seasonal food cycles of agriculture first-hand. Each fall, after the fall harvest is over, the children put the beds to sleep for the winter. They enjoy the fruits of their labor over the fall and winter by using root vegetables for soup, apples for applesauce, and grapes for grape juice. Over the last few years, they have cared for sheep, pigs, cows, and laying hens. Herbs from their herb garden are made into healing salves and ointments to give as gifts. Any uneaten food goes to the compost pile to nourish the soil. Our future goals for the farm program include expanding the gardens, using more food from the farm in our daily snack preparation, and employing more biodynamic farming practices.