Quaker Philosophy

12

A universal framework for making moral decisions.

There are six Quaker testimonies that emerge from the belief that everyone has an “inner light.”

Simplicity

Distinguishing between needs and wants. Removing distraction to strengthen your relationships, pursue your beliefs, and remain grounded.

Peace

This is not about avoiding conflict. Our focus on peace informs how we respond to inevitable disagreement. When done well, the response has the power to broaden perspectives and strengthen relationships. Our "Restorative Resolution" program exemplifies this testimony.

Integrity

So often, children are put in situations where they try to fit in. This creates inner tension and undermines self-worth. When one is authentic, true to one’s beliefs and free to pursue one’s passions, it’s liberating.

Community

All schools have a community. However, when a school community is undergirded by Quaker principles, it ensures that every student belongs and the whole is stronger than the sum of the parts.

Equality

No one person is more deserving of respect than another. Wisdom can emerge from any member of our community. This is why students refer to our teachers by their first name.

Stewardship

Tending to our environment must happen locally and globally, and the environment includes our culture and community as well as earth.

Students at Friends Meeting School engage in weekly “meeting for worship,” which is a Quaker religious service. Meeting for worship is an opportunity for the community of students and adults to gather for a period of silence and reflection. During the service, anyone may be moved to share a message—Quakers call this “vocal ministry”—with the group. It provides a valuable opportunity to step outside the chaos of the day, to connect with the larger community, and to exercise one’s voice.