What impact can an NGFS education have? 

Our students say it best. At the end of 8th grade, we celebrate this important milestone with families — and each student gives a short speech reflecting on their journey at NGFS. Their words are honest, heartfelt, and often unforgettable. Here's what they said:

I have learned so much during my time here: how to be more open-minded, how to solve problems, and most importantly, mutual respect. (2 years at NGFS)  

I hope to take the kindness and support I’ve had from New Garden with me to my life after. I hope to share my knowledge of Quaker values with others I meet on my path forward. New Garden taught me to believe in myself, and to strive for more. (10 years at NGFS)

What I have learned is that in life, we have to try things. Sometimes we do things that we thought we loved, but then realize that we actually don’t like them anymore. It means that we have grown into a new version of ourselves. (9 years at NGFS)

I learned how to communicate with people when I was upset without letting my anger affect how I handle myself. I learned how to better manage my feelings, my reactions, and responses. (12 years at NGFS)

Middle school has allowed me to become the person I wanted to become, to discover new passions, new friends, and grow academically. Each year, I have tried to do something new, and I learn something about myself with each thing I try. (3 years at NGFS)
 

All of the NGFS staff and teachers have done more than we could ever dream of to create a safe environment for my child to learn and grow. You are all truly amazing at what you do; the capacity and empathy that you reserve just to brighten their smiles or frowns is a standard that we ourselves continue to strive for. We LOVE this school and EVERYONE that makes it what it is.

— Lower School parent