Becky Everhart
Director
I first found the Barn while searching for preschools for my twins. As soon as I read about it, I thought—this is exactly what I would have designed if I could have created my own preschool. The cooperative model, the mixed-age classrooms, the deep commitment to play—it all felt just right.
My background is in Early Childhood Education (M.Ed. from Lesley University) and Psychology (B.A. from Gettysburg College). I began working in for-profit childcare back in 2001, first as a teacher and then as a director for five years. After my twins were born, I took time at home with them and eventually joined the Barn in 2017. I stepped into the role of Director in 2020, and I feel incredibly honored to lead a school that means so much to me both personally and professionally.
One of my favorite children’s books right now is Jabari Jumps. I love the way it captures the complex emotions kids feel when they’re on the edge of something new—nervous, excited, proud. I like to read it during both the first and last weeks of school, when those feelings are especially present for many of our students.
If I had a superpower, I think it would be my ability to let children take the lead. I love designing process-based activities and watching how the children adapt and transform them. When they’re given the freedom to follow their curiosity, the learning becomes deeper, richer, and more meaningful.
The Barn holds a special place in my heart—not just because I work here, but because my children had a beautiful experience here too. What makes this school so special is our focus on teaching the whole child. We’re not just checking academic boxes—we’re nurturing emotional growth, building friendships, and supporting each child as they learn through play. Our staff shares a deep commitment to this approach, and our mixed-age classrooms create such a wonderful environment for learning from one another. I truly believe this is the best way for children to grow, and I feel so lucky to be part of it.