Friends School Haverford

First grade is a magical time—full of curiosity, friendships, and exciting new challenges. At Friends School Haverford, we create an environment where children feel inspired to learn, explore, and grow, both academically and socially. Our approach blends hands-on discovery with structured learning, ensuring that every child builds a strong foundation in reading, writing, math, and beyond while developing confidence and empathy along the way. More Than Just Academics: A Whole-Child Approach Learning isn’t just about memorizing facts—it’s about discovering new ideas, making connections, and learning how to collaborate. Through Responsive Classroom practices and The Zones of Regulation, students gain essential social-emotional skills, creating a classroom where respect, kindness, and curiosity thrive. Each day begins with a Morning Meeting, a time for students to connect, share, and start the day on a positive note. By working together to establish classroom rules, students develop a sens...

Building Strong Foundations: A Journey Through First Grade First grade marks a transformative stage in a child’s educational journey. It’s a year where curiosity is nurtured, friendships blossom, and foundational skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and social learning take root. At Friends School Haverford, first graders thrive in a supportive environment that balances individual growth with community building. Social and Emotional Learning Developing both academic and social competencies is essential for student success. At the core of our curriculum are the research-based principles of Responsive Classroom and The Zones of Regulation, fostering an environment where children feel safe, valued, and motivated to learn. Each school day begins with a Morning Meeting, setting a positive tone as students greet one another and share their aspirations. This daily ritual encourages connection, strengthens communication skills, and helps build a classroom community grounded in respect and ...

Kindergarten is an exciting milestone in a child’s educational journey, full of curiosity, creativity, and discovery. At Friends School Haverford, we believe that this early stage of learning should be a time where students can grow both academically and socially in a supportive, nurturing environment. Through imaginative play, hands-on activities, and engaging conversations, our kindergarteners begin to understand themselves, their peers, and the world around them. It’s a time of exploration, experimentation, and foundation-building, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of learning. Social and Emotional Learning: Building Strong Foundations In kindergarten, children begin to develop stronger social connections and learn how to express their feelings and understand those of others. This emotional development is essential to their success in school and life. At Friends School Haverford, we integrate two key frameworks for social and emotional growth: the Zones of Regulation and Respons...

Friends School Haverford is a Friends (Quaker) school and welcomes students and families of all religious and humanistic traditions. The School was founded by Haverford Friends Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends in 1885. From the earliest days, meeting members, community members who sympathized with Friends educational ideals, and families associated with Haverford College worked to provide a Friends elementary school in the community. The essential belief of the Religious Society of Friends is that each person has “that of God” within them. Friends call this the “inner light.” This belief naturally leads us to treat one another with respect and appreciation. Our School community is enhanced by the differences that we bring as well as our commonalities. Quakers appreciate the “search for truth” and believe this orientation is deeply compatible with education. In weekly Meeting for Worship, the community gathers in quiet reflection and shares spoken messages. The community foc...

Founded in 1885 and guided by Quaker principles, Friends School Haverford has a longstanding tradition of fostering academic excellence, creativity, and personal growth in children from nursery through grade five. Our mission is to cultivate a community of diverse learners who are equipped with boldness of intellect and strength of character to navigate the world with integrity, kindness, and a sense of stewardship. Our Mission: Preparing Students for a Life of Purpose At Friends School Haverford, our mission is more than an academic pursuit. We are committed to nurturing the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. Our goal is to create an environment where students are encouraged to think critically, communicate effectively, and act with kindness and integrity. Grounded in Quaker values, we aim to instill a deep sense of respect for others and a commitment to serving the wider community. Through a curriculum rich in academic scholarship and artistic expression, stude...

Founded in 1885 and guided by Quaker principles, Friends School Haverford has a longstanding tradition of fostering academic excellence, creativity, and personal growth in children from nursery through grade five. Our mission is to cultivate a community of diverse learners who are equipped with boldness of intellect and strength of character to navigate the world with integrity, kindness, and a sense of stewardship. Our Mission: Preparing Students for a Life of Purpose At Friends School Haverford, our mission is more than an academic pursuit. We are committed to nurturing the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. Our goal is to create an environment where students are encouraged to think critically, communicate effectively, and act with kindness and integrity. Grounded in Quaker values, we aim to instill a deep sense of respect for others and a commitment to serving the wider community. Through a curriculum rich in academic scholarship and artistic expression, stude...