November 13, 2024

November is Native American Heritage Month, and just a few weeks ago, we had the distinct honor of attending the 52nd Annual Waccamaw Siouan Powwow. This experience was a meaningful way for our school community to celebrate and uplift the histories and legacies of North Carolina’s Indigenous peoples. How else can we show up as allies for Indigenous communities across Turtle Island (North America)? Here are some action steps to consider:

Get Informed: Learn about Native American history and the current challenges Indigenous peoples face today.

Engage with Intent: Participate in Native American events and celebrations with genuine interest and respect.

Listen and Create Space: Amplify Indigenous voices by listening to their stories and perspectives.

Support Indigenous Art and Culture: Share Native art and culture in ways that respect Native ownership and representation.

Take Meaningful Action: Go beyond acknowledgment. Focus on supporting solutions to obstacles hindering Native American rights.

For more on how to be an ally, consider engaging with Native organizations, authors, artists, and activists like Native Organizers Alliance, Indigenous Peoples Movement, and NCAI. Together, we can make allyship a meaningful and lasting commitment.

Our Stepping Stones and Stargazer friends spent a joyful morning practicing "gentle touch" with Cosmo, Jamison, Hudson, and Winnie from UNCW’s paws4people Assistance Dog Training Program! We are so grateful to this wonderful organization and especially to preschool parent Rachel Hoenig for organizing this special visit!

Did you notice the change in temperature this morning? I’m sure you did. Just 18 months away from the Mid-Atlantic, and I’ve already lost my tolerance for cooler weather. We’ve certainly been spoiled by this beautiful autumn (though we could use some rain!).

The changing weather is a timely reminder of all the wonderful things this season brings. Thanksgiving is just two weeks away, and soon after, we’ll dive into the “silly season” of overindulgence, gift-giving, relationship-mending, and hopefully, lots of joyful singing.

Music and singing have always been a constant in my life. I was fortunate to be introduced to musical theatre at a young age, performing in productions like Annie (as the Apple Seller and ensemble), Annie Get Your Gun (Little Jake), and Oliver Twist (the Artful Dodger), all before I turned thirteen. Even after my inevitable “voice breaking,” I adapted and kept performing through college and into adulthood. Read more>>>

Our PA has been hard at work these past few weeks brainstorming and organizing so many different events for our school community!  

In a world too often marred by violence and conflict, the Quaker commitment to peace stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of mutual coexistence. Rooted in a deep reverence for all of humanity, Quakers have long advocated for a world free from the shackles of war. As we look deeper into the intricacies of Quaker philosophy, we might ask: does the pursuit of peace—and the avoidance of war—mean overlooking or ignoring those who have served our country? Friends' commitment to all of the guiding testimonies—simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship—beckons us to turn towards a group that faces these challenges in myriad ways: our veterans. Read more >>>

Did you know we've already offered six after-school clubs this year, with options for every grade level? Take a look at some snapshots of our students in action, and keep an eye out for upcoming club offerings! Have an idea or question? Feel free to reach out to our Auxiliary Program Coordinator, Ashton, anytime.

Stepping Stones wave "hello, hello" in Kindermusik with Sarah.

Our mini chemists learn all about the pH scale in Weird Science. 

Little fútbol stars practice dribbling and defense during Soccer Shots. 

Our clever Codebusters and mighty Coach Beverly during  Science Olympiad.

Namaste! Stretching and breath control with Hummingbirds Yoga.

While not an after-school "club," CARE is always a cartwheeling good time.

This December 3rd, we’re excited to celebrate 30 Years of Friends! Join us for an online fundraiser honoring what makes Friends School truly special: our incredible students, teachers, and community. Throughout the day, we’ll share highlights from the past 30 years and invite everyone to be part of the next chapter. Let’s make this day count, Friends!

Exciting Staffing Updates

As we wrap up our first trimester and head into the holiday season, we are excited to share updates regarding new hires and internal transitions within our school community. These changes reflect FSW’s growth and commitment to providing a stable, enriching learning environment for our students, and we are incredibly proud of our talented faculty and staff, many of whom are advancing within our school into new roles. Read more >>> (From Tony's 11/12 email)

Trivia Night Cancelled

Trivia Night has been postponed to coincide with our May fundraising event, Evening with Friends. Previously registered attendees will receive a follow-up email shortly. We look forward to buzzer-worthy fun soon!

Last Week's FriendsMail (11/07/24)

Lower School Handbook

Middle School Handbook

Technology Guide & All-School Technology Policy

School News

Calendar

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