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Connecticut Friends School is a fully accredited, independent, preschool to Grade 8 school providing students with an education that fosters self-confidence, intellectual curiosity, and compassion for others.
The school is small by design; the educational program is dynamic, supportive, and engaging.Students at CFS do serious work in a joyous atmosphere.
Philosophy - At Connecticut Friends School, we provide a
child-centered environment that blends traditional and progressive
approaches to education. We challenge and encourage our students to
reach their full potential in a culture of high hopeful
expectation. Drawing on a 300-year tradition of Friends education
in America, our program is guided by the Quaker values of
integrity, equality, peace, community, simplicity, and stewardship
of the earth.
Welcome to Our Classrooms! - The CFS classroom is a lively
place that supports deep understanding, love of learning, and
social as well as intellectual growth. Our learner-centered
classrooms provide responsive and intimate settings where teaching
is adapted to different learning styles. Classes are multi-age and
organized by developmental need rather than by grade level. The CFS
classroom culture promotes respect, moral growth, an appreciation
of different perspectives, and cooperation among students rather
than competition.
We believe that students learn best when their interests and
questions drive much of the curriculum, and this belief is the
basis for a rigorous and engaging program. The academic curriculum
includes a core program of language arts, mathematics, social
studies, science, and foreign language. We use a variety of
teaching techniques including thematic study and experiential
learning, as well traditional classroom methods, while following
national standards such as the NCTM (National Council of Teachers
of Mathematics) and the NSTA (National Science Teachers
Association) guidelines. Creative expression is encouraged through
the performing and visual arts including drama, music,
storytelling, drawing, painting, and sculpture, and physical
activities such as dance and movement.
Opportunities for learning outside of the classroom are
critical to a child's experience at CFS. Field trips, essential for
building community, enhancing curriculum, and fostering a sense of
wonder about the world, are a regular part of our program. Service
learning is also important and introduces students to the
possibility of changing the world through organized action.
What a gem of a school! It's tiny, which made me a little nervous at first, but this turned out to be a very good thing! The kids get such personal attention from the teachers, it's almost like the curriculum is catered to each individual. If you want to see your child find their passion and shine, this is the place! I feel like our child was just going through the motions at public school, lost in the shuffle, and completely bored. So happy we made the switch!
- Posted by Parent - jen
57/24/2015
CT Friends is such a special school that offers such a unique and cherished educational experience! The school is all about "back to basics" (personal electronics are discouraged!) and "being a kind human being/member of the community". Focusing on simple pleasures (even cleaning up as a group/team!), games/activities (canoeing, ice skating, rock climbing) and ways to bond (overnight retreats), all in a supportive and nurturing environment, shapes each child into the special individual they were meant to be!
- Posted by Parent - brile
57/24/2015
This is a great school by far if you are looking for a challenging academic program that allows the teacher to customize based on individual learning styles. Our intentional low student/teacher ratio creates a strong relationship between teachers, students, administrators, parents, and staff. The community is strong and supports each and every child. My kids have all gone (or going) through K-8 at CFS. It provided a strong foundation for each of my children giving them confidence, academic excellence, strong values. It is a winning combination and something you cannot get in a public school setting. My son that graduated was accepted to a prestigous private high school and on his way to success!
- Posted by Parent - orian
52/9/2014
Connecticut Friends School is a great school that supports each child by engaging them in a way that makes them want to learn. I have 2 children in this school and it has been an amazing experience for our family. Before coming to this school my children attended public school where they were both losing their enthusiasm for school. After hearing many positive reviews of the school we decided to enroll them both. Shortly after starting they began to get the spark back in their eyes and actually wanted to go to school and learn. They immediately connected with their teachers and developed strong peer friendships. It is a special place where each child is supported and challenged to be their best self. We love this school and definitely recommend it!
- Posted by Parent - orian
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Quick Stats (2024)
Grades: Nursery/Preschool-8
Enrollment: 80 students
Average class size: 12 students
Application Deadline: None / Rolling
Source: Verified school update
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Did You Know?
The average private school tuition in Fairfield County, CT is $22,134 for elementary schools and $31,915 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
