Business Details
Private Preschool to 8th Grade Education in Boulder
Friends School has been dedicated to educating the whole childhead, hand, and heartsince our founding. Our mission centers on nurturing students' academic excellence while fostering social-emotional growth and character development. With small class sizes, we tailor learning to individual needs, ensuring each student is seen, known, and loved. Our innovative curriculum blends rigorous academics with creative expression, project-based learning, and community engagement. We prioritize mindfulness, empathy, and self-advocacy, preparing students to thrive in high school and beyond.Our graduates emerge as confident, compassionate leaders equipped to make a positive impact. As a member of the National Association of Independent Schools and accredited by the Association of Colorado Independent Schools, we uphold the highest educational standards. Our community-driven approach extends to teacher training, offering a nationally recognized Teacher Preparation Program. For decades, we have remained committed to cultivating joyful, lifelong learners who embody curiosity, resilience, and kindness.
Services
Early Childhood
Elementary School
Middle School
Teacher Preparation Program
After School Programs
Summer Camp
Highlights and features
- Small class sizes ensure personalized attention
- Exceptional social-emotional curriculum with mindfulness focus
- Proven success in high school transition preparation
- Close-knit community with strong teacher-student relationships
- Innovative project-based learning approach
Associations and certifications
- Association of Colorado Independent Schools
- National Association of Independent Schools
What people say
Small community
Close relationships
Engaged learning
Strong preparation
Supportive environment
Services
Early Childhood
Our play-based early childhood program nurtures curiosity and social skills through structured exploration. Certified teachers cultivate emotional awareness and foundational academic concepts. Outdoor learning spaces promote physical development and imaginative play.
Elementary School
Gold Standard Project-Based Learning combines academic rigor with creative problem-solving. Students engage in interdisciplinary projects that build critical thinking and collaboration skills while developing personal learning identities.
Middle School
Inquiry-based middle school program emphasizes academic mastery and adolescent development. Integrated curriculum with experiential learning fosters intellectual growth, empathy, and habits of mind for high school success.
Teacher Preparation Program
Year-long residency program prepares educators for Colorado licensure with mentorship from experienced faculty. Combines Saturday coursework with hands-on classroom experience and optional master's degree partnership.
Summer Camp
Week-long summer immersion programs explore STEAM, arts, and outdoor education for ages 2.5-14. Half-day and full-day options include themed camps in science, theater, cooking, and sports with flexible scheduling.
People
Matt Levinson
Head of School
Dedicated educator with decades of experience in holistic child development. Leads faculty in creating intentional learning environments that balance academic rigor with social-emotional growth for 21st-century learners.
Ivan Johnson
Middle School Program Head
Specializes in adolescent education with focus on inquiry-based learning. Develops curriculum that combines academic challenge with character development, preparing students for successful high school transitions through empathetic teaching practices.
Questions
What grades does Friends School serve?
We educate students from preschool through 8th grade in Boulder, Colorado.
What is your student-teacher ratio?
Our small class sizes maintain an 8:1 student-teacher ratio to ensure personalized attention.
How do you support social-emotional learning?
Our curriculum integrates mindfulness practices, conflict resolution training, and character development across all grade levels.
What extracurricular programs are available?
After-school enrichment includes arts, STEM, sports, and private music lessons with flexible scheduling options.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, we offer need-based scholarships through our Founders Fund and Personalized Affordable Tuition program.
Do you have a summer program?
Our summer camps for ages 2.5-14 include themed programs in STEAM, arts, and outdoor education.
