Farm

One of the most treasured elements of the Sacramento Waldorf School campus is our three-and-a-half acre farm, a peaceful retreat overlooking the San Juan Rapids of the American River.

Our multi-acre, mixed-use working farm is one of the most vibrant places on our campus. It is a peaceful retreat overlooking the San Juan Rapids of the American River. The farm was established using biodynamic principles and features vegetable, flower, herb, and native plant gardens as well as fruit trees. It is home to an array of animals, including cows, a llama, two pigs, and many sheep, chickens, ducks, and geese. Our resident farmer, Stephen Payne (affectionately known as Farmer Steve), teaches students in Second through Tenth Grade about the complex ecosystem of the farm and the intricacies of farming in our region.

The farm is integral to the curriculum of our entire school. Children in the Early Childhood program explore the farm during weekly walks. Lower School students are intimately involved with the farm and seasonal cycles. Third Grade students learn about all stages in the food chain, including planting, harvesting, cooking, and composting. The Fourth Grade cares for farm animals. Sixth Graders pick, prepare, and sell farm produce to the community at our Thursday Farm Stand. Students in High School prune fruit trees and roses, prepare cuttings from trees and grapevines to develop into nursery stock for the future growth and development of the farm, and learn about how land stewardship and environmental conservation intersect with our region’s agricultural heritage.

In an era when children are becoming less and less engaged with the natural environment, our farm is a peaceful haven and a jewel at the heart of our school’s community life, inspiring reflection and connection to each other, the natural world, the seasons, and the food we eat.