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Germantown Friends School

explore our CAMPUS

What's cool about our campus is that it's spread out over seven acres in Philadelphia's historic neighborhood of Germantown. The buildings are an eclectic mix of old and new, a unique look and feel more consistent with a college campus. With three gyms, three auditoriums, a student center, numerous open, green spaces and nine classroom buildings, it's a place worthy of adoration and exploration. The Meetinghouse, at the center of it all, provides a beautiful and spiritual focal point.

1. Main Building 2. Meetinghouse 3. Sharpless 4. Hargroves 5. Wade Science Center 6. Alumni Building 7. Admissions 8. Living Graveyard 9. Dead Graveyard 10. Loeb Performing Arts Center 11. Smith Gym 12. Cary Building 13. Friends Free Library 14. Field House 15. Scattergood Gym

we have deep roots in this place

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Germantown Friends School

The Pillars of A

Quaker Education

At GFS, students and teachers gather in Meeting for Worship once each week. This is a time for shared, silent contemplation. Anyone who feels moved to speak may rise and do so. It is a simple formula, and can be a remarkably powerful experience.In these days of constant connectivity, the ability and opportunity to sit in silence have special value. Meeting for Worship is a cornerstone of the GFS culture that many come to cherish throughout their lives.

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speak the truth

We strive to deal fairly, equally and honestly with everyone. We aim to do as we say, reflecting our beliefs in our actions. even when it is inconvenient or challenging, we stand by our convictions, striving to lead lives of integrity.

Shine Together

We are all blessed with remarkable gifts. We are equally qualified to seek truth and to hear the voice of God. Every person deserves equal respect. For these reasons, we work against prejudice and discrimination and for equality.

stay connected

"Alone we can do little; together we can do so much."* We know there is strength in cooperation and wisdom to be found when many perspectives come together. We believe in the power of community.*
The words of Helen Keller.

keep it simple

In every way we can, we try to minimize the distractions that can draw our attention from the important things in life. This means not becoming overwhelmed by the busyness of daily routine. It means seeking balance. It means embracing simplicity.

care for all

This planet we inhabit, the talents we've been given, the community of which we are a part- all hold remarkable value. We must be responsible, imaginative and proactive in protecting these gifts and caring for the world and people around us. We must exercise good stewardship.

promote peace

We believe each life is precious and unique. We stand against war and violence and work to eliminate their root causes, including ignorance, racism, hatred and oppression. We are committed to creating peace.

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Germantown Friends School

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A Cappella

GFS A Cappella is the coed close harmony vocal ensemble of Germantown Friends School. Founded by GFS teacher David Buffum in 1995, the group has been directed by GFS faculty member Allen Drew since the fall of 2002. They have been featured on WFLN's "Notes from Philadelphia,” NBC 10's 10! Show, and the NBC 10 5 o’clock News, and have performed in Poland, the Czech Republic, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Eastern Canada and China, as well as the greater Philadelphia region.

Their recordings over the years have received much critical acclaim, landing them 6 times in the Best of High School A Cappella (BOHSA) National Compilation CD. Their most recent BOHSA inclusion was the song “Dr. Feelgood” (soloist Johanna Velasquez) from “The Blue and White Album.” In addition to this, their CD “Vinyl” was one of the 5 nominees for the 2010 Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards (CARA’s) in the categories of best high school song and best high school album. Furthermore, “The Blue and White Album” received the 2012 CARA for Best High School Solo (“Dr. Feelgood” again) and was nominated for all of the other three high school categories – best album, best song and best arrangement.

A Cappella is very excited about their CD, “Upload,” which was released in February 2013. Please buy a copy any time at the GFS front desk to support our ongoing efforts. Furthermore, a portion of each year’s proceeds goes to support the performing arts at GFS as well as a charity of the group’s choosing. This past year, the group chose to support an organization called Freeset Global.

A Cappella continues to distinguish itself by learning difficult arrangements and exploring a wide variety of musical genres.