United Friends School

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United Friends School is a preK-8 Quaker school located in Quakertown, Pennsylvania.

United Friends School was founded as a cooperative school in 1983 by a group of parents seeking an education for children based on the Quaker principles of care for one another, such as truthfulness, simplicity, community, and peaceful settlement of disputes. The founders envisioned a school that would provide a nurturing environment where children would be encouraged to reach their full and unique potential through an extensive and flexible academic program. They sought to create a school where parent involvement would not only be welcomed, but expected.

The founding parents of United Friends School also envisioned a school where children learn by experience. They valued opportunities for children to learn, not only from their teachers, but from one another. They envisioned small classes allowing teachers the opportunity to interact effectively with children of different ages and abilities.

Consistent with Quaker values, United Friends School seeks to emphasize the Light of God within each individual. The school fosters the practices and principles of Quakerism as an experiential part of school life, focusing on the testimonies of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Service, and Equality. Students build this by attending Meeting for Worship, studying the history of Quakerism, participating in service and outreach projects, practicing non-violent conflict resolution techniques, making decisions by consensus, and participating in Meeting for Worship for Business. In this way, the school nourishes spiritual growth within each child and inspires a greater sense of self-worth and respect for others.