Frequently Asked Questions

Why Western Friends School?

FWS teaches children academic and social skills while encouraging a permanent and joyful love of learning. We perceive learning not as a set of principles to be memorized but as a continual process of inquiry. We have chosen our particular academic model not because we feel it is most fun for kids, but because we believe it is a powerful pedagogy, capable of affecting children in a profoundly positive way as they navigate through life.
Our academic program is based on the acknowledgement that children are smart in different areas and in different ways. While many schools pay lip service to this idea, we actively and intentionally balance discovery and direct instruction in order that all children will find a way to engage the subjects they are studying.
By fostering cooperation rather than competition the among students, FWS creates an atmosphere that celebrates individual differences. Working together, the children learn the joys and challenges of building a community while, at the same time, gaining a sense of their specific interests and abilities.

What is a Friends school?

Friends schools are based on the values of equality, integrity, simplicity, community, stewardship, and peace. Since the opening of the first Friends School in Philadelphia in 1689, Friends education has steadfastly maintained that social, ethical, and spiritual development is just as important as academic excellence in the education of a child. A Friends School cares deeply about the type of individuals its students are becoming. Friends Schools stand as beacons for tolerance, love, and mutual understanding.

Are you a religious school?

Although we are rooted in the Friends, or Quaker, belief system, we do not teach religion per se nor do our students need to be Quaker. We enroll students from a variety of faiths at WFS. Students are encouraged to share from their own faith traditions.

Can we visit the school?

Of course! Parents and prospective students may visit by appointment with the Head of School. Just call (626) 793-2727.

Parents and children may attend our Open Houses, the next open house is November 23rd,2008 at 3:30 PM.

How are children evaluated for admission?

FWS does not test children as part of our admissions process; rather, there is an informal assessment of applicants in the areas of reading, math, and writing fluency, according to their age.
Children entering grades 3 through 6 spend a full day integrated into a classroom program. Children participate in on-going classroom activities and discussions, and are welcomed into the social group of the class for that day.
Children entering grades K through 2 meet one-on-one with our teacher for 30 minutes. They play games and engage in various activities that allow the teachers to observe each child in a general sense.
Our admissions committee also looks at information provided by the applicant’s parents and current school as well as teacher recommendations.

How are children evaluated as students once enrolled at FWS?

Teachers and Parents develop a Learning Compact at the start of school for each student. This sets out a list of goals to be obtained through the year. Parents are provided written progress report at the end of every trimester. We do not assign grades, nor administer standardized tests. Tests are used for grade 2 and above during the year to measure progress on math, spelling, and grammar. This helps the teacher give the student and their parents feedback on progress and areas of need. Our curriculum is in alignment with national standards for the various disciplines and our teachers accumulate samples of student work, quizzes, and test scores to supplement their close observation.