Waldorf Inspired
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Waldorf Inspired Teacher Training Programs
Covering aspects of early childhood, lower grades, and middle school subjects, the Micha-elic Curriculum is taught according to a natural rhythm, both within the day's lessons, and within the year. From midsummer to midwinter, daylight decreases and a desire for a more contemplative existence stirs within us. Correspondingly, studies center around anthroposophy and the inward path. From midwinter to midsummer, the days get longer and a yearning stirs within the soul to become more involved with the active life. Studies during this time emphasize child development and the more active side of teaching. All programs are taught on a rotating year-long basis, so that beginning teachers-in-training are learning and growing alongside senior classmates.
Foundations
The Foundations Certificate is an ideal introduction to anthroposophy and Micha-elic education for all adults who wish that they could have had a Waldorf education in their childhood and youth. It is especially helpful for parents who have or wish to have their children in a Waldorf program, as this course will explore the backdrop of approach. Topics change each month and include Rudolf Steiner’s indications on child development, anthroposophy (the philosophy behind Waldorf education), story-telling and festivals within a Waldorf school, the social evolution of the world, eurythmy, Goethean science, curriculum within a school (by grade), and art within the school. |
Early Childhood
The Early Childhood Teaching Certificate prepares individuals to act as lead teachers in an early childhood classroom. Individuals pursuing this certificate will learn to integrate the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of child development into a classroom environment. The importance of imagination, play, nature, and wellness will be studied deeply, providing a strong foundation for lead early childhood teachers. Micha-elic coursework for the Early Childhood Teaching Certificate includes four years of early childhood summer intensive courses, one year of comprehensive certificate coursework, three years of independent study covering two texts each year, practicum developing over three years, teaching evaluation and mentorship. |
GradesBecoming a class or subject teacher is a process that requires intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual development. Individuals who seek this path must be prepared for rigorous study in all aspects of education including handwork, music, eurythmy, language and the general pedagogical trajectory proposed by Rudolf Steiner. Through engaging class discussions, self-reflection, and written and visual curriculum work, individuals will develop a deep understanding of the principles behind one of the largest growing fields of education. Micha-elic coursework for the Grades Teaching Certificate rotates on a three year basis, taking place on Fridays and Saturdays aligned with the school calendar. Each year (Red, Blue, and Yellow) must be completed, along with a year of Foundation Studies coursework completed before or during the first year of study. Students are required to complete a main lesson book for each year, writing assignments for philosophical and pedagogical texts covered, an art portfolio including examples of all art coursework, practicums yearly, and mentorship in second and third year of study. |
Graduating from the Micha-el Institute was a life-changing experience that opened many new doors for me both personally and professionally. The three-year training was thorough and comprehensive and prepared me very well for my career as a Waldorf teacher. Thank you for a wonderful program!