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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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Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Contact the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Charla Okewole, Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Multicultural Parents Alliance: mpa@germantownfriends.org


At GFS, we welcome the experiences and perspectives of all members of our community. We strive for continuous growth in understanding and valuing the intersections of age, ability, gender, race and ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and socio-economic status. We bring awareness to these varied parts of our identities and the roles they play in making us who we are, individually and as a school community. 

Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team coordinates with all members of our community to better engage in these principles. We see DEI as integral to the ethical foundation of our community, and it is a responsibility that we all share. 

GFS is a community that values both intergroup and intragroup connections. The work we do within groups and across our community permeates the fabric of our school life. Our desire is to improve relationships between people by dialoguing, engaging in constructive conflict, and working together in authentic and meaningful ways. 


Engagement on Campus and in the Wider World

On Campus

GFS creates spaces for students to engage focused learning on relational identity development and allyship through events such as Diversity Dialogue Day in the Upper School and our all school Unity Day.

Many of our teachers and staff are actively engaged in exploring race, culture, and ethnicity, and are leaders in these areas at GFS, regionally, and nationally. Faculty/staff-initiated affinity groups help address concerns and foster deeper connections within our community.

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Affinity Groups

Affinity groups offer students who share the same identity a safe space to gather and build connections.


Off Campus

Conferences and Workshops
Conferences and Workshops

GFS seeks to improve the capacities of our students, faculty, and staff through professional development, conferences, and in-house days.

Diversity Ambassadors
Diversity Ambassadors

Our Diversity Ambassadors take on collaborative leadership roles in their commitment to cultural programming, social justice, and more.


DEI News and Updates