Diversity at NFS

At Newtown Friends School we seek to create a school that cultivates a global mindset in our students so that they develop the skills, knowledge, and disposition to lead and contribute thoughtfully and meaningfully to our diverse world. We are committed not only to making our school a warm and welcoming place for everyone but also to preparing our students to enter the world demonstrating the skills they have developed at Newtown Friends School, so that they may lead and live dynamically and peacefully with all whom they encounter.

In harmony with the Quaker testimony of equality, we strive to engage our students, parents and staff in lessons, activities, workshops and a school culture that affirms the humanity of each member of our community.  At every level of instruction, Newtown Friends School students are given the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of another and also to tell their own story.  Our goal is to graduate students who see the value in themselves as well as others, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, age, nationality, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

As Director of Equity, along with the Diversity Committee and faculty and staff,  I work with all constituents of Newtown Friends School to ensure this is a safe place for everyone.  It is my desire that every student entering our doors comes in with a sense of belonging and leaves believing they have the power to change our world, and a deep commitment to advocating for justice and equity for all people wherever they may be.

Sydney Lewis
Director of Equity and Inclusion

At Newtown Friends School, we are committed to cultivating a vibrant and inclusive learning community that celebrates the uniqueness of every student while striving to provide a safe, joyous, dynamic, and academically rich environment. Guided by our Quaker values, we see that of God in every person and the inherent worth and dignity of every community member, and we recognize the importance of honoring and affirming diverse gender identities.

At Newtown Friends School, we understand that the journey of affirming and expressing one's gender identity can be deeply personal and evolving. Whether a student's gender identity is emerging or has been consistently asserted, we are dedicated to creating a supportive and affirming environment for all individuals. We acknowledge that gender identity can be fluid, and we intend to provide a space where every student feels seen, respected, and valued in every step of their identity development and expression process.

At Newtown Friends School, we recognize the vital role of families in supporting their children's health, well-being, and identity development. We believe that open and respectful communication between educators and parents/guardians is essential for nurturing the academic success and holistic well-being of every student. With this understanding, we actively collaborate with families to develop appropriate plans that respect the confidentiality of a student's gender identity and that align with the student's health, needs, and preferences, as well as with the school's values and practices.

Our commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive educational environment extends to ensuring that all students are protected from discrimination, harassment, and bullying based on their gender, gender identity or expression. Together, as a community guided by love, respect, and understanding, we embrace diversity's richness and affirm every individual's inherent dignity at Newtown Friends School.

For the March Diversity Roundtable, members of the Diversity Committee, who themselves immigrated to the United States, shared their stories including what the experience was like for them, and the impact of immigration and/or refugee legislation on their lives, among other topics.  We also discussed ways to support and help these communities and how we can prepare for the refugees we are likely to soon see from Ukraine and other regions of the world in conflict.