Masked teacher teaching elementary school children.

What does a Friends school have to offer?

A Basic Tenet of Quakerism...

A basic tenet of Quakerism is that truth is continuously revealed and is accessible within a community of seekers. At Friends schools, this belief is reflected in an open-minded approach to curriculum and teaching and a developmental approach to children and learning. Students learn to practice truth-seeking and know the various ways this can be accomplished - through inquiry, scientific investigation, reflection, creative expression, critical thinking, dialogue, worship, and service.

Friends schools create an environment within which students and staff alike can continue to mature as companions in a wide range of experiences. These experiences, both outward and inward in nature, may bring forth in each person a deepening awareness of the “Inner Light,” which leads to faith in the ability of every member of the school community to reach his or her full potential. Children grow and change in an environment that nurtures their spirits and challenges them to develop inner resources for discipline, respect, compassion, and achievement. They are encouraged by word and example to respect a variety of perspectives in a diverse learning community, as they engage in a cooperative search for knowledge, insight and understanding.

Quakers Believe

Quakers believe in strong encouragement of the individual. Each person has the capacity to be good, the ability to see the Light of God, and the ability to put that truth to good use. Thus, Quakers provide an exceptional and unique learning environment. Students who graduate from a Quaker school walk away with a strong sense of social understanding, skills to deal with adversity, tolerance and respect for others, and a strong sense of self-worth so that they have the power needed to succeed.

-Graduate of a Friends school, 1994