Welcome to Friends Schoolhouse

- a school close to home -

An early learning program of State College Friends School guided by the Quaker testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship.

Friends Schoolhouse is a beautiful, nature-inspired place where children grow in self confidence and social awareness while building developmentally appropriate skills that prepare them for their first experiences in formal learning.

It's a caring, family-oriented place where light-filled rooms and cozy spaces provide a comfortable and reassuring extension of the daily routines and rhythms found at home, as children explore at their own pace and enjoy the success of learning through teacher-supported play.

With the thoughtful presentation of activities in music, art, cooking, "make-believe," nature exploration, and outdoor fun, children are given an array of creative opportunties to begin the process of discovery and inquiry that develops into the building blocks of academic understanding.

Friends Schoolhouse is located at 611. E. Prospect Avenue in State College.

Admissions Office located at State College Friends School 1900 University Drive, State College. 814-237-8386.

Our curriculum is designed to recognize and respect each individual's style of learning, taking into account the whole child - head, hands, and heart.

Children engage in activities that help them discover and develop their natural interests and innate strengths.  From using "kid writing" to create and present a puppet show, to building a tower with blocks, paper and yarn, or making "soup" for a family of imaginary wee folk, children are encouraged to express themselves in a variety of ways.

Teachers promote self-confidence and esteem by celebrating the achievements and success of all students.

Our goal is to enrich the lives

of young children by helping them develop physical and emotional independence, and natural curiosity.

Friends Schoolhouse is where learning happens in a child's time, as they express themselves through meaningful work, sharing with friends.

Drawing from the educational ideals of Reggio Emilia, among other complimentary early childhood education theories, children at Friends School House develop an understanding of how people, things, and language make sense to them.

Recognizing that the preschool setting is often the child's first experience outside the familiarity of the home, our flexible schedule allows families to determine the best situation for their child.