What is a Friends Schools (Quaker)?
Friends schools are schools rooted in the Quaker (Religious Society of Friends) tradition. Often academically strong, independent day or boarding schools, they emphasize Quaker values — peace, equality, integrity, simplicity, community, and stewardship — and welcome students of all backgrounds, not only Quakers.
History & origins
Quakers founded many respected American schools, several centuries old, reflecting a longstanding commitment to education, equality, and social conscience.
Philosophy & approach
Friends education is guided by Quaker testimonies and the belief in "that of God in everyone," fostering reflection (including silent meeting for worship), respect, service, peace, and inclusive community alongside strong academics.
Curriculum & academics
Academics are typically rigorous and college-preparatory, emphasizing critical thinking, discussion, and ethical reflection, with strong arts, service learning, and often a global outlook.
The classroom & school day
School life features meeting for worship (shared silence), consensus-minded community, service, and an inclusive, values-driven culture, alongside academics and activities.
Grade levels & structure
Friends schools span preschool through grade 12; some are day, some boarding.
Admissions & enrollment
Admission is by application (records, interview, sometimes ISEE/SSAT), open to all faiths. Tuition applies, with financial aid at many.
Costs & financial aid
Friends schools charge tuition, often with significant financial aid, as independent schools.
Accreditation & governance
They are independent schools, typically accredited and often NAIS members, affiliated with Friends education associations.
Is a Friends Schools (Quaker) right for your child?
A Friends school suits families who value strong academics within an inclusive, peace- and service-oriented, values-driven community — of any faith background. Those seeking a more doctrinal religious education may prefer a different tradition.
How it compares to other schools
Friends schools are Quaker-rooted independent schools, known for values and inclusivity. They differ from Catholic and evangelical Christian schools in theology and in their characteristic silence, consensus, and peace testimony.
Finding Friends Schools
Ready to explore specific schools? K12 Academics lists Friends (Quaker) and other schools across the country.
Key facts
- TraditionQuaker (Religious Society of Friends)
- ValuesPeace, equality, integrity, simplicity, community, stewardship
- OftenIndependent, academically strong, inclusive day/boarding schools
- WelcomesStudents of all faiths
- CostTuition, often with strong financial aid
Where to learn more
To learn more and find specific schools: