Friends School of Wilmington is a preschool-8th grade independent school rooted in Quaker values that is dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of learning and a drive to act always with courage, integrity, and love.
Our educational mission is grounded in a sustained commitment to academic excellence and ethical character; a learning environment where students are equipped to lead lives guided by curiosity and kindness, wisdom and empathy.
Starting in our Montessori preschool classrooms, we empower children to explore the world around them through creative, hands-on discovery. Our Lower and Middle School students develop as self-confident critical thinkers who solve problems with authenticity, adaptability, and collaboration.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Grades: Prekindergarten-8
- Enrollment: 188 students
- Yearly Tuition: $16,975
- Average class size: 15 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: Verified school update
School Overview
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-8
Year Founded
1994
School Calendar
First Day of School
Mon. Sep 1, 2025
School Motto
Lifelong Learners. Lifelong Leaders. Lifelong Friends.
Student Body
Total Students
188 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
4%
State avg.: 23%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
26 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
7:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
67%
Average Class Size
15 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$16,975
Tuition Notes
Tuition assistance available
Admissions Director
David Hoolahan
Admissions Associate
Theresa Schroeder
Sports
Total Sports Offered
8 sports
Sports
School Notes
WHAT WE BELIEVE
- We believe in a learning environment grounded in Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship. These "SPICES" provide a set of shared values and a common set of expectations for everyone at FSW.
- We believe that learning should have a public purpose. Our students are involved in the community and are provided with myriad opportunities to connect the curriculum with real-world issues in Wilmington and beyond.
- We believe in cultivating a diverse community of belonging where everyone is known, respected, and valued for their authentic self.
- We inspire our students to think critically, problem solve creatively, and apply lessons with nuance and care for the world around them.
- We deliver adynamic academic programin sync with a global landscape that keeps students interested, active, and engaged. Academic challenge is matched with support from expert and caring faculty, ensuring that every student is truly seen and known as an individual.
- We offer a wide variety of enrichment programming,athletics, andartsopportunities so that students can pursue their passions, learn to work together, and contribute to a wider community ecosystem.
- We integrateexperiential processes, evidence-based practices, blended methodologies, and differentiated instruction tocultivate a vibrant learning environment across all ages and grade levels. This includes curricular programming like Everyday Mathematics, Reader's Workshop, Writer's Workshop, OpenSci, StoryPath, and ResponsiveClassroom/Developmental Designs.
- We combine our core subjects with enrichment programming, service-learning partnerships, environmental education, social-emotional learning, and DEI projects to nurture the whole child.
- We actively involve students in the learning process so that they feelownership in navigating the curriculum with confidence and curiosity.
- Sample of notable school alumni/alumnae:
- Madeleine Peterson, 2020 Alumna -
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Friends School Of Wilmington cost?
Friends School Of Wilmington's tuition is approximately $16,975 for private students.
Who are famous alumni from Friends School Of Wilmington?
Friends School Of Wilmington famous alumni include: Madeleine Peterson, 2020 Alumna.
What sports does Friends School Of Wilmington offer?
Friends School Of Wilmington offers 8 interscholastic sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Dance, Flag Football, Martial Arts, Soccer and Tennis.
When is the application deadline for Friends School Of Wilmington?
The application deadline for Friends School Of Wilmington is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
School Reviews
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