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Nestled in the historic Homeland neighborhood of Baltimore, Friends School of Baltimore stands as a beacon of innovative education, deeply rooted in Quaker principles and a commitment to transformative learning. Founded in 1784, this pioneering institution holds the remarkable distinction of being Baltimore’s first school, with a rich legacy that spans nearly two and a half centuries of educational excellence.
The Quaker Foundation of Learning
At the heart of Friends School of Baltimore lies a profound educational philosophy that goes far beyond traditional academic instruction. The school embodies the core Quaker values known as SPICES: Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship. These principles are not merely words but a living, breathing approach to education that recognizes the inherent worth of every individual.
The school's mission is both powerful and transformative: to foster in young people the skills, knowledge, and habits of mind needed to be courageous change-makers in the world. This commitment is evident in every aspect of the school's approach, from classroom instruction to community engagement.
A Holistic Educational Journey
Friends School of Baltimore offers a unique educational experience that challenges students to:
- Develop critical thinking skills
- Embrace diversity and inclusion
- Engage in meaningful community service
- Explore personal passions across academics, arts, and athletics
The school's innovative approach is perhaps best captured by their philosophy: "When Friends is your school, Baltimore is your classroom." This means students don't just learn within school walls but actively engage with the broader Baltimore community, developing real-world skills and a deep sense of social responsibility.
A Century of Innovation on Charles Street
In 1925, the school made a pivotal move to its current location on North Charles Street in the Homeland campus. What began as a purchase for athletic fields has since transformed into a modern, dynamic educational environment. The campus has continuously evolved, with significant milestones including:
- 1928: First new building constructed (Primary School)
- 1936: Consolidation of all school divisions on North Charles Street
- 2004: Establishment of the Little Friends Early Learning Center
- 2024: Transformative renovation of the Lower School complex
Beyond Academic Excellence
What sets Friends School apart is its commitment to nurturing not just intelligent students, but compassionate, socially conscious individuals. The school’s Meeting for Worship is a distinctive feature, providing students with a unique space for reflection, silence, and personal growth.
🌟 Note: The school's approach emphasizes that education is a lifelong journey of seeking, not a race to a finish line.
Alumni like Nick Silbergeld '04, who pursued impact investing, and Elaine Kwon '08, a founding partner of an ecommerce management company, exemplify the school's success in preparing students to make meaningful contributions to society.
As Friends School of Baltimore continues to write its remarkable story, it remains committed to its founding principles: recognizing the potential in every student and empowering them to let their lives speak through action, compassion, and purpose.
What makes Friends School of Baltimore unique?
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The school combines rigorous academics with Quaker values, emphasizing personal growth, community service, and social responsibility.
When was Friends School of Baltimore founded?
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The school was founded in 1784, making it Baltimore’s first school, with its current campus established in 1925.
What are the SPICES values?
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SPICES stands for Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship - the core Quaker principles that guide the school’s educational philosophy.