*Hard working, determined, compassionate, encouraging, unflappable,
a gift to children, parents, and teachers*
For nineteen years Libby Case has given her heart and soul to the Orchard Valley Waldorf School. We have all been touched by her efforts as she worked tirelessly in every area of our school. Libby was a devoted class teacher in early childhood and in our grade school. She prioritized creating beautiful festivals and was always present for our community work days, rolling up her sleeves, wielding a paint brush or a cleaning rag, and staying until the very end. Libby served on nearly every Orchard Valley committee, taking on leadership roles and leading the charge to strengthen and grow our little school. For many years she devoted herself to the governance of our school, always providing solid, practical advice that helped guide us further along. Libby noticed the small details around our school building that needed care or cleaning and she never hesitated to scrub, mop, or tidy up even after a long day of teaching. Libby was truly a dedicated community member and she daily went beyond her classroom in service to our Waldorf families and staff.
Libby began her career as an environmental educator, traveling across the United States, visiting schools and learning about different educational approaches. During one of these expeditions, she and her husband, Ben, met a young woman who was grounded, comfortable in who she was, and had a keen interest in the world. And no wonder, she had been a Waldorf student! This acquaintance planted seeds for what would become a passion of Libby's - Waldorf education that would also incorporate her work as an environmental educator.
As Libby began to learn more about Waldorf principles, she knew she wanted to dig deeper as well as have her own two children experience this rich and unique education. She had the good fortune of working in a Waldorf early childhood classroom where she became an assistant for a master teacher. When the opportunity presented itself, she enrolled in a Waldorf foundations class. In 2001, Libby and Ben made their way to Central Vermont and to Orchard Valley Waldorf School. Libby was hired as the lead teacher at the Child's Garden where she remained for three years. From here she moved on to the beloved farmhouse at the Grace Farm campus.
After ten years as an early childhood teacher, Libby decided she wanted to further her own Waldorf education by becoming a grade school teacher. Libby is a life-long learner. Her early childhood parents encouraged her to take the first grade class, and she was ready! Libby was one of very few who made the inspiring journey from grade one all the way through grade eight. Libby counts this as one of her greatest blessings. "It was an amazing experience" that presented lasting, rich relationships with her students and their families. Libby then continued to guide another class for two more years. With a wistful sigh, Libby said, "I will miss those kids! Making them smile was the highlight of my day!"
