Olney Friends School was founded in 1837 by the Religious Society of Friends. The school adheres to basic principles or “testimonies” that draw on Quaker tradition and values. Among these testimonies are truthfulness, simplicity, non-violence, and respect for the good in every person. We sum these up in our Community Rule: Be truthful; Harm no one. Students come to Olney Friends School from many different faiths and backgrounds. We try to teach respect for and celebration of differences rather than simple tolerance.
Olney Friends School students are asked to gather as a whole community regularly in silent Meeting for Worship as is the Quaker tradition. Students use this as a time to quietly reflect and gather strength and clearness which help them better face the challenges of meeting their individual responsibilities and the responsibility of living well in a close community. It is a cornerstone of community life here at the school; most Olney Friends School students quickly learn to appreciate the benefits of this quiet time.
Olney Friends School stands out in its vision and expectations for young people. Naturally, we ask each student to become fully engaged in his or her college-preparatory education. But we ask more. We ask each student to wrestle with questions of conscience, to appreciate simplicity, to choose a healthy, substance-free way of life, to develop healthy habits in both work and play, and to become a positive member of a close-knit and caring multi-generational community.