05/11/2026
As we celebrate 30 Years of Hearthstone School, thank you for considering a donation during Give Local 2026: https://www.givelocalpiedmont.org/organization/hearthstoneschool
Since 1996, Hearthstone School has been a vibrant and dedicated part of the community, committed to nurturing children in an environment where they feel safe, supported, and inspired. For 30 years, our mission has been to provide a welcoming space where students are free to express themselves creatively, emotionally, and intellectually while developing the confidence and character needed to become compassionate, well-rounded adults.
At Hearthstone, we believe education is about more than academics alone. We strive to cultivate curiosity, imagination, critical thinking, and meaningful human connection, helping each child discover their unique strengths and potential. Through a balanced approach to learning, students are encouraged to develop both hemispheres of the brain, growing not only into strong learners, but also into thoughtful, capable individuals who contribute positively to the world around them.
From 1987 through the following nine years, Spring Mountain School operated as a Waldorf-inspired school and created the foundation for what would become Hearthstone School. Many of the holistic and child-centered principles associated with Waldorf education continue to inspire our commitment to creativity, experiential learning, and the healthy development of the whole child.
Community connection is at the heart of the Hearthstone experience. Throughout the year, the school hosts a variety of beloved traditions and events that bring students, families, and neighbors together in celebration, creativity, and shared purpose.
The Hearthstone year begins with an all-school hike and concludes with a canoe trip down the Shenandoah River, framing the school year with experiences in nature and community. Seasonal traditions enrich the rhythm of the year and create lasting memories for students of all ages. The Fairy Tale Walk showcases student imagination and performance through live skits, storytelling, and immersive woodland experiences. Each fall, the community gathers for a shared Thanksgiving meal, while the Hearthstone Christmas Bazaar celebrates local artisanship and festive community spirit.
During the winter season, students and families honor the shortest day of the year with the Solstice Advent Spiral, a quiet and meaningful tradition of light and reflection. Soon after, the “Little Lantern Walk” brings the community through the streets of Little Washington in a joyful evening of lanterns and caroling. One of Hearthstone’s most beloved traditions is the “All You Need Is Love” Valentine’s Dance — a Beatles-themed dinner and dance filled with music, joy, and connection.
In the spring, older students prepare decorated hard-boiled eggs for the annual Easter egg hunt, hiding them for younger students to discover. The school year culminates in Mayday festivities, where Hearthstone families gather to dance around the maypole in celebration of spring and community.
In addition to these annual traditions, Hearthstone also hosts special events throughout the year, including music festivals and community fundraisers that support meaningful initiatives such as the high school service trip program.
Today, Hearthstone School remains devoted to fostering a warm, inclusive community where children can thrive, families feel connected, and lifelong learning is celebrated every day. In keeping with our belief that every child deserves access to a nurturing education, Hearthstone maintains a “pay what you can” policy, helping ensure that all families have the opportunity to become part of the Hearthstone family.
Hearthstone serves students from Nursery/Kindergarten through 12th grade and also offers classes for homeschoolers. Sustaining a community-centered, accessible education model requires ongoing support, and on May 12, Hearthstone will participate in Give Local. We warmly encourage anyone who believes in our mission to contribute in any way they can. Every donation, large or small, helps us continue providing a nurturing and enriching environment for children and families in our community.
We are deeply grateful for your support, generosity, and belief in the Hearthstone vision. Thank you for helping us continue this important work for future generations. ❤️
