Celebrating the Class of 2025

Last Friday, we said farewell to the Class of 2025 at a beautiful graduation ceremony in the campus amphitheater. Together, we celebrated the 8th graders and their shared experience at Marin Waldorf School. We heard from their class teacher Ms. McIlroy, from MWS alum and current parent Jake Pearl, and from the students themselves, who each took a turn to speak at the podium. It was a beautiful and heartwarming sendoff.

A highlight of the day was the beautiful speech given by 8th grade class teacher Julia McIlroy. In her moving words to the graduates, Ms. McIlroy highlights the importance of community and care at Marin Waldorf School—something exemplified by this year’s 8th graders. Please take a moment to read her message to the Class of 2025 and their assembled friends and family, below.

Good morning, graduates, family, friends, alumni, and faculty!

My name is Julia McIlroy, and I’ve had the immense honor of being this class’s teacher for the past year and a half, and their math teacher for much longer. And let me just say—it’s been a wild, wonderful ride. A bit like herding cats... if the cats had opinions about revolutionary America, independent research projects, and whether lunch should start five minutes early. 

There’s a truth I’ve come to see every day in this classroom: what matters most in life isn't just what we know or achieve—it’s how we treat each other. It’s our relationships. The way we show up for one another, even when we disagree. Even when someone takes our spot in the cozy nook.

At Marin Waldorf, being part of a class is like joining a family. Sometimes it’s loud. Sometimes someone "borrows" your colored pencils without asking. But always, it’s rooted in deep care and connection. Social-emotional growth here is just as vital as physics or math lessons. In fact, in a world increasingly shaped by AI, automation, and ever-smarter devices, our ability to connect—to be truly human—is more important than ever.

A groundbreaking Harvard study—now over 85 years running—found that the single greatest predictor of happiness and health over a lifetime isn’t wealth, intelligence, or even genetics. It’s the quality of our relationships. Good relationships keep us healthier, happier, and help us live longer. That truth is at the heart of what we practice every day in this school.

Maya Angelou once said: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

These six students have been learning how to make each other feel seen, heard, and respected—even when things weren’t easy. I’ve watched them wrestle with big ideas, with each other, and with how to share the last brownie without causing an international incident.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who the students studied this year, said:
"We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools."

This class has lived that lesson. They are six very different individuals who have learned to work together, compromise, argue, reconcile, and grow. And this kind of learning—how to live with people who aren’t just like you—is the foundation of any peaceful, meaningful society.

Some of the growth I’ve witnessed has been profound.

Stella, who once hardly said a word aloud in school, has found her voice—and when she speaks, we all listen.

Kiian—well, he’s learned that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is pause—stop walking—and really listen to someone else speak. And when you’re as funny and full of thoughts as Kiian, that’s no small achievement.

Reece has brought joy, spontaneity, and a deep sense of community to this class. She has a way of drawing people in, making sure no one feels left out, and reminding us to laugh—even when things feel heavy.

Lucas is our quiet leader. With calm presence and strong convictions, he leads not by volume, but by example—always thoughtful and steady, with astute observations thrown in.

Colin has brought his immense intellect and fierce curiosity to every conversation. He has a talent for dissecting complex ideas, and a willingness to debate every detail. This year, he has found his softer, kinder side. He has shown up for his friends in a very different way.

And Adam—Adam brings a quiet, steady happiness to everything we do. He shows up with a smile, ready to help, ready to draw whatever picture we ask, and always ready to be a true friend. In so many ways, he has been the glue that holds this class together.

Of course, none of this happens without the teachers who helped build the foundation these students stand on. Subject teachers, thank you. You’ve each played an essential role in preparing this group for what lies ahead—with your brilliant teaching, wisdom, and unwavering support.

Ms. Rhian Dale guided and loved this class from first through third grade, helping to shape the vessel that has carried them to this moment. We’re so happy you could be here with us today. Ms. Stroud, Ms. Ashley, and Mr. O’Connor—though not with us today—each left a meaningful imprint on these students’ lives. And Ms. Reed, thank you for the time, care, and talent you’ve shared so generously with these students. Your presence means so much.

To the students—thank you. Truly. You’ve taught me as much as I’ve taught you. Some days, possibly more. Watching you grow—academically, socially, emotionally—has been one of the great privileges of my life. I have laughed with you, learned with you, and cheered for you. And I love each one of you.

You’ve filled our classroom with curiosity, passion, creativity, and heart. You’ve also left behind a few wrappers, about twelve unwashed mugs, and one or two unfinished handwork projects—so sorry, Ms. Dow! But most importantly, you’ve left a lasting mark on me, and on this school.

As you step into the next chapter, take with you everything you’ve built here: your kindness, your curiosity, your ability to work through hard moments with grace—and yes, with humor. Know that no matter where you go, a part of you will always be here. And I will always be cheering you on.

Congratulations, Class of 2025. You’ve made us proud. You’ve made me proud. Now go make the world a little better… and come back to visit us once in a while.