Arizona Medieval Games

Once a year we organize and run a multi-day event for the 6th grade students of Arizona’s Waldorf/Waldorf inspired schools.  The event is the culmination of their academic lessons in medieval history, skills training in movement/physical education classes, and self-improvement through virtue-centered goals.  This experience is a rite of passage brought together with trust and team building exercises, problem solving exercises, historical education, role modeling from members of a medieval society, and tournaments in a safe environment. It is a unique opportunity for the students to further develop their education, personal growth, social growth, and physical skills as they fully engage with other students from around the state.  We serve between 60 and 100+ students each year.   Teachers and families report seeing growth and maturity in the students upon their return from the event. 

This tradition is held by Waldorf communities around the United States.  The Arizona Games were founded in 2009 by Deana Douglas and Heidi Johnson of the Phoenix and Tucson schools, respectively.  Within a few years, the event grew and became a valued and beloved tradition to Arizona’s Waldorf communities and families.   Arizona’s reputation for an exceptional event grew and representatives from other states have come to learn and bring this model of the event back to their own communities.  We enjoy continued support from school administrators, teachers, parents, and alumni students.  Each year individuals return to the Games to volunteer their time and share their enthusiasm.