School as a Journey, or Becoming Yourself
July 10, 2025
As featured speakers at the Class of 2025’s graduation, BWS parents Holly Henderson-Fisher and Josh Fisher share the story of their 15 years at Berkshire Waldorf School, how they got here, where they went (in a boat!) and what they learned. Portrait by Alexi Lubomirski
Holly Henderson-Fisher
“It’s a tremendous honor for me and Josh to stand before you today, not just as proud parents, but as members of this cherished Waldorf community. This school is one of the core pillars of our family life. Our family’s rhythms and traditions have been painted from this school’s palette. In many ways, the DNA of this school has been forever woven into our family’s culture. And it touches every part of who our children are and who they are still becoming.
“Josh and I have been part of this school family for almost 15 years now. We joined the Berkshire Waldorf School community when our daughter, Bella, was just two years old. And Lincoln became a founding member of the “Class of 2025” as an infant, in the parent-child group. It is the only school he has ever known.
A Journey to the Brave & Beautiful
“Now, we have several parents in today’s graduating class who have a history with this school that spans MUCH further than my own. (And that is true for many classes at this school.) They were students here themselves. If you were at last year’s graduation, my dear friend, the incomparable Ariella Chezar, spoke to the graduating class. Ariella gave the most heart-warming recounting of her OWN childhood spent here at the school. She then wove her own Waldorf journey alongside that of her daughter, Celeste, who was graduating in 2024.
“Ariella’s story formed a full circle between herself and her children – with this brave, beautiful school as the constant circle holding them together. I cannot offer you a multi-generational Waldorf story today. Now, I cannot conjure images of thoughtfully lazure-painted walls and the giant hand-carved wooden boat that Ariella and a dozen of her kindergarten classmates inhabited, pressed together like siblings destined for an epic quest.
The original Little Wooden Boat from the early days of Berkshire Waldorf School.
“Truth be told, I had more of a ‘lawn furniture in the house’ kind of upbringing. MY Waldorf story, which I’ll offer you today, is a bit less idyllic….. But it is no less profound.
A Journey to Meaning
“I am a Berkshires native. I grew up just down the road, in Sheffield. Along with my brother and sister, I am the product of local public schools from Kindergarten through 12th grade. But—and it’s a big BUT—this is the school I have always WISHED I had attended. And that longing started when I was just 15 years old.
“I will ALWAYS remember sitting in freshman year English class in 1993. That is when I first encountered graduates from THIS school: ‘Steiner kids,’ as they were affectionately known then.
“I can’t remember exactly what we were studying in English, but it was the beginning of the school year and the teacher had just handed out a worksheet of some kind for us to complete. This was a true WORKSHEET. Now, any of you that were the product of a conventional, rote-learning educational system will know EXACTLY what I mean. This worksheet was definitely busy work and nothing more. We all knew it. We all hated it. We all accepted our fate and started our task.
“Except, unexpectedly, a young man seated near me raised his hand slowly. His question, I now realize in retrospect, changed the course of my life and that of my children. He raised his hand and asked ‘But WHY are we filling out this sheet?’ He was entirely polite in asking his question—but also entirely serious. The teacher seemed surprised and stumped.
“I don’t remember the answer. I am certain it was not a satisfying one. But I remember the moment itself—the QUESTION—as clear as day.
Why?
“The question lingered over the classroom like an echo. I turned in my chair. Who WAS this student, I thought . . . asking the teacher WHY we were doing whatever it was he wanted us to do. Could you do that? Was this a dialogue? An exchange of ideas? Were we allowed to ask why? And if we were, then why hadn’t I realized this sooner? My mind was blown.
“Over the course of my freshman year, I met a few more ‘Steiner kids.’ I could often tell who they were in advance; there were signs, if you knew how to spot them. They were smart—and I don’t mean just book smart. They KNEW things much more deeply than the rest of us.
“They were kind. They never, ever derived their sense of self-worth at the expense of another. They were upright, with clear eyes and full hearts. At the time, I clearly remember thinking that these kids were somehow their own people—like, people with opinions… already! And they were just 15.
“That simple Why? spoken over 30 years ago hung over me for the rest of my high school education. It followed me to college in New York City and graduate school at Oxford. It followed me to law school. And honestly, it never left.
A Journey to Truth & Beauty
“Flash forward 15 years to 2010: Josh and I were choosing what kind of education we wanted for our own children. We wanted them to be able to stand in their own truth and ask WHY. We wanted them to be known and to know themselves. We wanted them to recognize their own humanity, and the humanity and inherent worth of every single person around them. And that is the task of Waldorf Education, in a nutshell.
It turns out that Waldorf Education is actually not that hard to explain. It is about raising healthy, centered and actually connected human beings. This education speaks to every part of the human experience—our search for knowledge, for beauty, for meaning and for goodness.
– Holly Henderson-Fisher
“When I was 15, I knew there was something to this Waldorf thing. But in 2010, I was sure. Josh and I visited Mr. Eurich’s Middle School classroom on a tour of the Great Barrington Rudolf Steiner School (as our school was known then). Bella was not yet two. But we stood at the back of his classroom as Mr. Eurich taught and I heard the sweet call of that familiar word—WHY?
“Mr. Eurich and his students were going over the homework from the night before. Students were raising their hands as they moved through the assignment, offering answers to Mr. Eurich. They were moving at a fast clip. It was a real group experience; everyone was chiming in.
“An answer was offered to one problem and Mr. Eurich said ‘Yes, that’s right.’ But as he began to move on, one student said…
But why?
“It was as though lightning struck me. I still get chills just thinking of it now. An exchange ensued between the student and Mr. Eurich. Then other students offered solutions and explanations. The back-and-forth continued. It was, in fact, a dialogue!!!
“School, it turns out, was not a dictatorship. Now, maybe it wasn’t quite a democracy . . . but it was a relationship. Of respect. Of inquiry. Of a fully seen, and heard, and known class family and a fully engaged class teacher.
“In 2010, we chose Waldorf Education for our children. And we have never looked back. BWS Class of 2025, at some point in each of your journeys, your parents did the same. They chose this school and this education for you. As we stand before you today, I am absolutely certain that my children’s education at Berkshire Waldorf School is the greatest gift we have ever given them.
“When a child is educated in freedom, in rhythm, in respect for their inner world—they don’t just fit into society. They help change it. They see possibilities. They know how to ask questions, how to create, how to care.”
– Holly Henderson-Fisher
A Journey to Courage & Creativity
“To the Class of 2025: an education of the head, hands and heart is more than a motto—it is a lived experience. And it is a gift. You are each stepping into the world with a sense of wholeness, with the courage to be creative, and with the empathy to meet others as fellow human beings. Carry with you the rhythms and stories that have shaped your time here.
“Trust your inner compass, even when the path ahead is uncertain. Stay curious. Stay kind. Speak the truth. Always. Even when other voices around you fall silent. And know that what you’ve experienced here—this deep, soulful education—is a part of you now. It is in your hands. In your words. In your way of being.
A Journey to Transformation
“As I reflect on the journey that brought the Class of 2025 to this moment, I am filled with deep gratitude. Gratitude for each of the Early Childhood teachers, many of whom are here today, who held our children in rhythm, beauty and wonder. Gratitude for Mrs. Fernbacher and Ms. Profumo, and all the teachers who have guided them with patience, reverence, and wisdom.
“Gratitude for the rhythms and rituals that have shaped their days and years. For festivals, handwork, art, movement, nature, the morning verse. And gratitude for the deep-rooted values of this education: that learning is not just about information, but about transformation.
“To the teachers: thank you for seeing the true essence of each of our children. Thank you for holding space for their unfolding. For teaching not just with your minds, but with your hearts.
“And to my fellow parents: we have shared something special. This community has been a village in the truest sense. These children, the Class of 2025, are a family. They deeply know and love one another—they respect one another. And I know we will carry that connection forward.
“So here’s to this beautiful, resilient, imaginative, and brave class of 8th graders. May you continue to meet the world with wonder. The world needs exactly who you are becoming.
Congratulations, Class of 2025.
The Class of 2025 set sail on the Mary Day schooner for their last trip together.
Joshua Fisher
“As many of you know, I recently had the pleasure of chaperoning the Eighth Grade class trip to Maine and New York City. It really was a pleasure, and if you ever have the opportunity to spend five days and nights packed onto a 90-foot schooner, cheek by jowl with twenty-three 14 year-olds, I do highly recommend it—as long as you’re sailing with these guys.
“Now, I have known many of these young people for a long, long time. Since the Rainbow Room. The Rose Room, even… if you want to go way back. And even the more recent arrivals I’ve gotten to know quite well through my various roles here at our school… Pizza Friday crew chief. Theatrical lighting director. Gardening class assistant. And most recently, late-night bedtime enforcer.
“Despite some evening shenanigans, we had a great time together on the boat. Hoisting sails. Jumping into the cold, cold ocean. Fighting over that last meatball at the dinner table. I got to see them all in a new way, and I got to know them all a little better, a little deeper. And I am so grateful for this.
Raising the sails on the Mary Day required the teamwork of the whole class.
“But there’s also that old saying that familiarity breeds contempt. In this case, it was definitely not contempt that I was feeling. No, it was far, far from contempt. But perhaps, at times, familiarity did breed in me a certain predisposition toward annoyance. Especially after the 10pm lights-out call.
A Journey to Becoming Themselves
“So I was actually a little bit surprised when, on the last day of our journey, several of the crew and the instructors on the ship came to us chaperones and told us how our Eighth Graders stood out from all the other student groups they had encountered before—even other Waldorf classes.
“They were impressed by how close our students were, how kind they were, how well they treated each other, and also how they treated the crew. They were respectful, inquisitive, eager to learn, and eager to help. Not afraid to work, to polish brass on deck or scrub dishes in the galley.
“And I think the crew was especially impressed by the students singing in the main cabin house before bed, led by Mr. Ree and Ms. Patel. For it is rather unusual, in this day and age, for a group of teenagers to so fully, and so beautifully, take up the ancient art of the sea chanty.
“These kids, the Mary Day crew told us, were different. They were exceptional.
“And as they praised these students, the scales of familiarity fell from my eyes and I saw these young people in a fresh light. Not as a chaperone tasked with bedtime enforcement, but as these other adults saw them. Very similar to the way Holly saw that ‘Steiner kid’ in her public high school classroom years ago. Similar to the way she and I saw Mr. Eurich’s Eighth Graders in the classroom, when we first visited as young parents.
“And even though I already knew them and loved them—even past bedtime—I was newly impressed by them, and I realized… Aha! That’s right! THIS is why we are all here, at THIS school: for the formation of exceptional—exceptionally whole—young people, with sharp minds, strong characters, and willing spirits.”
– Josh Fisher
“So good work, parents, on raising such exceptional children. And thank you so much to Mrs. Fernbacher, Ms. Profumo and all the teachers at BWS for all you have given to these young people. Your hard work and dedication pays off each time they step out into the world and strive to make it better.
“Congratulations, graduates. You made it. This is your day. Enjoy it. For in the immortal words of that famed troubadour and poet, Captain Barry…
It is a lovely day in the great state of – Not Maine, but Massachusetts. Sunny skies. 70 degrees. Palm trees and white sand beaches. Tall glasses of lemonade with tiny pink umbrellas. And today, well-lived, makes yesterday a dream of happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope.
Sail on, Berkshire Waldorf Class of 2025!
Waldorf 101: PARENT INFORMATION Events
We’ve curated this collection of Parent Information Events (P.I.E!) to welcome new families, and partner with current families whose children are growing into the next stage of their development. Join us to learn more about the “how, when and whys” of Waldorf Education that your family will cherish for a lifetime.
Learning to Become Yourself!
Looking Forward to Middle School *
WED January 15, 2025, 8:30-9:30 a.m. EST
Starting with coffee in the Jean Zay Memorial Library (BWS Grades School building), this in-person event is for current and prospective families whose children will be entering Sixth, Seventh or Eighth Grades in September 2025 (and those looking into the future). Meet teachers and administrators to learn more about our Middle School curriculum and programs, and how they uniquely meet your student’s growing understanding, skill and curiosity. Then we’ll cap off the morning with a visit to Middle School classes in progress.
Adults only, please. Register in your Ravenna family portal, or email Admissions Director Robyn Coe (admissions@berkshirewaldorfschool.org) to learn more.
*For caregivers applying to Sixth, Seventh or Eighth Grade for your student, please complete the tour, “Looking Forward to Middle School” and “Becoming a Berkshire Waldorf Family” as prerequisites to your child’s teacher interview.
Becoming a Berkshire Waldorf Family*
WED February 12, 2025 8:30-9:30am
Berkshire Waldorf School teachers make a bold commitment: to partner with you to nurture your child’s healthy learning and growing for a lifetime.
This live, in-person event is for current and prospective parents and caregivers whose children will be entering school for the first time, who are considering moving to Waldorf Education, or who want to deepen their understanding of what it means to become a Waldorf family. Hosted by the BWS Leadership Team, this lively conversation unpacks the cultural aspects of joining Berkshire Waldorf School, a learning community based on warmth, connection and mutual support. We’ll also discuss how to make the most of your brief and unforgettable journey through Early Childhood and the Grades.
Click the button below to register in Ravenna. All current and prospective caregivers, friends and family are warmly welcome. Adults only, please.
*As part of your child’s application, we ask prospective parents and caregivers to complete both the school visit (Coffee, Tea & Tour) and “Becoming a Berkshire Waldorf Family” as prerequisites in addition to–and preferably prior to–your family interview with the teachers, since this experience will inform many aspects of your discussion.
Register for all Events in Ravenna
To learn more about our school tours and events, jump to School Visits.
Priority applications for the 2025-26 school year are open now, and both school and financial aid applications are due February 1, 2025.
Last but not least, please save the date for our festive May Day, always May 1 at 11:00 am, when our whole community joins on the school green to celebrate Spring in the Berkshires. Thanks for joining us!
BWS Holiday Handcraft Fair is Coming Nov 16!
Fair News Flash: The Auction is OPEN! Bring your gift list and bid on your favorite Berkshire fun and treats through November 17.
Sharing the Delights of a Creative Family Holiday
Our 52nd annual gift to the community, Berkshire Waldorf School families, teachers and students come together to create a festive Holiday atmosphere, making tiny gifts for the Little Peoples’ Shop and the Pocket Fairy, transforming each class in the Grades School building into a magical realm to explore. Meanwhile, many elves are busily knitting squares to form this year’s unique Community Afghan.
For more information, contact 413-528-4015 or fair@berkshirewaldorfschool.org
For the Child in Us All
Early Childhood teachers perform a puppet story, featuring their own handcrafted puppets, with two performances during the day.
Other Fair highlights include the Children’s Craft Room where youngsters can make their own presents, “Sweet Spot,” an interactive game with live musicians (and desserts for prizes!) and the Pocket Fairy, whose many pockets are filled with small surprises.
Treats for All Ages
The Berkshire Country Store stocks artisanal and gourmet treats, and our lunchroom, Rudy’s Diner, serves lunch, warm drinks and homemade desserts.
Shop for one-of-a-kind handmade items in the Handcraft Room, and bid for gifts and prizes in the Raffle Room.
Holiday Handcraft Fair magic continues in our online auction of gifts, experiences, memberships and services. Click the button below to view and bid, and have fun planning your next adventures! Handcraft Fair Auction proceeds benefit Berkshire Waldorf School Tuition Assistance programs.
Online auction bidding opens the week before Fair day, November 10 at 10:00 am, and closes Sunday, November 17 at 9:00 pm, so don’t wait to bid on your treasures.
Thanks for bringing your whole family over to play at the BWS Holiday Handcraft Fair! Free entry and parking; rain or shine.
Happy Holidays!
Berkshire Waldorf School’s curriculum of academic excellence–activated with movement, music, outdoor learning and the arts–has been preparing students to achieve their full potential for 53 years. The school welcomes Fall 2025 applications for students 18 months through Eighth Grade starting November 1, and offers generous tuition support for qualified families.
Sharing the Solar Eclipse with Young Children
Sharing the solar eclipse with young children offers a rare opportunity to help your child learn that they can stay safe and grounded, even when something extraordinary happens.
Learning Through the Senses
For the young child, every day is a celebration.
Young children experience the world through their senses. They feel the light and warmth of the sun through their bodies. They marvel at the sun’s power to wake up plants and birds, chase the clouds away and peel off our winter coats.
Celebrate the Good
In Early Childhood classes at Berkshire Waldorf School, we celebrate all that’s good in the world: the beautiful light of the sunrise, food prepared with so much care, the children’s community of loving family, the safe embrace of Mother Nature, and so much more.
Instead of Explaining…
In our modern world, we focus on the scientific, material aspect of things. We tend to understand phenomena like a solar eclipse through intellectualized explanations. However, giving children rational explanations prematurely can contribute to confusion, anxiety and hypervigilance. It pulls little ones out of the developmental space where the world makes sense to them because they can experience it with their senses. The sages of old knew to meet events like this with the same wonder and reverence as other cosmic events.
Waldorf Education founder Rudolf Steiner writes about how children’s feelings during such moments are the same as what we could call “religious feelings” in an adult.
Focus on Experience
So instead of looking up during the time of the eclipse, how about we look down?
I invite you to tap into your inner quiet during the time of the eclipse, and observe your children and nature. How does the light and the mood change? Look for shadows and light. How are your pets behaving? And what about the other animals that might live in your backyard? The crows, the geese? Are the birds singing? Are the bees buzzing? How do the flowers and trees change? Is your child getting a bit clingy, or are they oblivious to what is happening in nature? Let the experience resonate without a verbal explanation.
Highlight with Gratitude
We can take this opportunity to give gratitude to the Sun and the Moon for sharing their light with us. How about planting some flowers for the bees, who are sometimes called “light workers”? Sunshine soup for dinner? Moon cakes (aka pizza or tortillas)? How about a candle for the moon and a candle for the sun, to give thanks for their life-giving light? These are just a few thoughts to fuel your imagination.
A solar eclipse is so much more than one celestial body passing in front of the other and blocking the light, it’s an opportunity to share the wonder of the world with our children.
PIE! Parent Info Events START 11/29
You’re invited for some special PIE (parent info events, aka parent education), on the menu at BWS between Thanksgiving & Holiday Break! We are grateful to be together, in the spirit of learning and community. Bon apetit!
Waldorf 101: How, When & Why Waldorf Education Works
Wednesday, Nov. 29 | 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Join experienced Berkshire Waldorf School teachers Alessandra Profumo and Lynn Arches for an inspiring overview of how, when and why Waldorf teachers bring the “3 Rs” to students in ways that create lasting learning and meaning, not just rote memorization.
Free; all welcome. We will meet in person in the school library. Bring your questions! Bring a friend! Adults only, please.
*PRO TIP: For real insight, we invite you to experience the school in action at our “Coffee, Tea and Tour” the same morning, WED 11/29, or the following week, WED 12/6, starting in the Library (Grades School building), from 8:30-9:30 a.m. For more info or to register, email Admissions Director Robyn Coe at admissions@berkshirewaldorfschool.org.
Since You Asked: Why We Do What We Do
Friday, Dec. 1 | 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Join veteran teacher and Berkshire Waldorf School Council of Teachers Chairperson Krista Palmer for a conversation about how BWS teachers meet the whole child, according to Rudolf Steiner’s indications on child development.
Mrs. Palmer will give an overview and answer your questions about the incarnating child from birth through adolescence, continuing her primer (begun at our “Looking Forward to the Grades” meeting in November) around the “Whys” of Waldorf Education and the philosophical understanding BWS teachers work from. Don’t miss this!
Winter Tips & Tools for Prevention and Wellness
Monday, Dec. 4 | 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Join licensed acupuncturist, Berkshire Waldorf School alum and Board member Emily Kasten to learn basic acupressure, Chinese medical massage techniques, plus simple herbal and kitchen remedies for immune support, wellness and recovery.
