We’re delighted to have the opportunity to share information about Carolina Friends School. We know that you’re looking for the very best possible learning environment for your child, and we hope that as you explore your options, you’ll consider these facts about CFS:

CFS enrolls children ages 3 through 18, which gives students the opportunity to continue their education through high school in the same environment.

Our integrated curriculum offers engaging projects that allow students to “connect the dots” and apply what they know to real life. For examples, use this website to check out “what’s new?,” or click below on any unit of the school, and then on “curriculum” or “values and aspirations.”

At CFS, we focus not only on strong academics but also on social, emotional, artistic, spiritual, and physical growth. All our students take dance, art, music, fitness, and foreign language. They engage in collaborative learning, practice conflict resolution, make meaningful choices, have regular jobs, and enjoy plenty of time outdoors.

Students benefit from a 9:1 student-teacher ratio, with highly qualified and imaginative teachers (not teacher assistants) who devote close individual attention to each child. Students are seen, heard, and valued for who they are. This allows them to develop the skills, values, and confidence they’ll need to thrive – and make a difference – in the world.  

Individual uniqueness is valued and encouraged, and students receive the challenge and support appropriate to their abilities, interests, and needs. Instead of standardized tests or grades, we evaluate students through written narrative evaluations and parent-teacher conferences.

CFS students are given responsibility – for academic choices, for personal relationships, and for their community. They are engaged in meaningful community service projects on campus and in the wider world.

Consider the Class of 2007. 37 graduates. 96% matriculated at colleges of their choice, with an outstanding acceptance rate at UNC, Duke, and State as well as other fine schools.

With 13 buildings and over 76 acres on the main campus, students have the facilities, space, and safety they need to expand their horizons, spread their wings, and thrive. “Green” values so important to our children’s future are incorporated into the curriculum and campus maintenance – e.g., through use of recycled materials, water reclamation, and solar power projects that include photovoltaic collectors returning power to the grid. All this within 15 minutes of Durham, Chapel Hill, or Hillsborough.

Founded by Quakers in 1963 as one of the first racially integrated schools in the Southeast, CFS maintains a commitment to diversity of many kinds: race, national origin, religious affiliation, family structure, sexual orientation, learning style, physical ability, and socio-economic background. Around 18% of CFS families receive need-based tuition assistance. This year our community include students from several countries, including Korea, China, Rwanda, Afghanistan, and Ethiopia.

We are fortunate to have low attrition – around 8%, so if you can imagine your child thriving here, please consider applying soon. 

There is no better way to experience CFS than during the school day, so we invite you to call us to arrange to take a parent tour of our main campus. Or visit one of our Open Houses in late fall. Please check back for dates and times.

If you’d like to know more about what a Quaker education can mean for your child, please call Kathy Kirschmann or Kathleen Davidson at extension 221 or 240.  We look forward to getting to know you.