Welcome to Friends Select’s lower school—a transformative expedition through the foundational years of pre-kindergarten through fourth grade.
At Friends Select, we believe that education is a dynamic process, a series of interconnected steps that foster curiosity, creativity, and compassion. We empower students as agents in their own learning and embrace the guiding values of Quakerism while developing strong skills in our young learners, both academically and social-emotionally.
Creating a Culture of Learning Rooted in Quakerism
Our educational philosophy is deeply rooted in constructivism—the idea that learners actively build their understanding through hands-on experiences and meaningful interactions. From collaborative projects to inquiry-based learning, our classrooms are dynamic spaces where students understand that school is something done “by” them, not “to” them. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and to make choices within the framework set out by the teacher and curriculum. We embrace research-based practices and create a culture of learning that includes adults as well as students.
Guided by Quaker principles, our educational journey places a strong emphasis on simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equity and justice, and stewardship (the “SPICES”). Students engage in regular Meetings for Worship, where they learn the value of stillness, reflection, and communal sharing. These moments foster a sense of belonging, empathy, and responsibility toward one another, shaping a compassionate foundation for their academic and personal growth. Students understand that they are important members of a community, and they have both rights and responsibilities in their classroom, their school, and their larger communities.
