From the earth and the heavens

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It is difficult to determine the beginning of the story behind the start of Lawrence's first Waldorf school.

You can read about Marty Haught's journey to this process and how many from the surrounding area came together to help build the Waldorf Association of Lawrence here. But on this page we will talk more tangible about how Prairie Moon School came to be.

So it all started with the name. Prairie Moon came to Marty Haught back in August 2001 after the Summerfest festival. Spending a full day out on the farm with perfect weather set the mood for the land that would eventually spring up a Waldorf school. Marty felt that prairie should be part of the name due to the farm's rolling hills and open pasture but Prairie Waldorf School didn't seem complete. He did think about Prairie Fire but that was already used in a local restaurant and didn't seem to truly reflect the nature of the school. Moon however came to mind and instantly stuck. It seemed perfect combining the earthiness of prairie with the heavenly beauty and mystery of the moon. What better way to name that combining the two elements that make human beings unique - the blending of the earth and heavens. The children come from above and slowly grow into their bodies and become solidly planted on the ground.

The name sat dormant for several months until in a passing conversation with Sarah Visos-Ely she mentioned the same name. From there other members instantly fell in love with the name, committing it to its place as the name of our Waldorf school.

Additionally, many of us have found other significant aspects to the name. Prairie represents the essence of the earth and mother nature in Lawrence, Kansas giving it extra importance due to the loss of children's exposure to the outdoors. The moon, with her wisdom and mystery, guides from high above. She also represents transformation which parallels nicely with the development of children as they come into their own. We hope this is the beginning of a magical experience for the children and their families in Lawrence, Kansas.

As the school year draws closer we will begin to record more of our history for your curiousity.