Section Styles bg-right
Our guiding principles at Heartwood
At Heartwood, Quaker values guide how we learn, grow, and care for one another.
Quakerism is a faith tradition rooted in simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship—known as the Quaker testimonies or SPICES. These values are not just ideas; they are lived every day in our classrooms, relationships, and community practices.
The Quaker SPICES: Values in Action
The core tenets of Quakerism are often summarized by the acronym SPICES:
Simplicity
Our approach is process oriented, and occurs within relationships. When we build meaningful connections with others and within ourselves, we grow.
peace
We bring light, not heat. Striving to understand the why behind unsafe behaviors helps us to validate and meet students’ needs. When we feel safe in our bodies, we can work together.
integrity
Section Styles full-width
As a value-driven non-profit organization, we are committed to developing caring, honest, and authentic relationships with our students, families, and community.
community
People of all neurotypes are included, valued, and welcomed as their full, authentic selves.
Equality
We are founded on the belief that there is goodness in every person, and we respect and honor each person’s path.
Stewardship
We model taking good care of materials, living things, the earth, and each other.
These values are not just abstract ideas; they are lived every day in our classrooms, inform our relationships, and shape our community practices. They provide a framework for a holistic education that extends beyond academics.
Embracing Neurodiversity & Individual Worth
At Heartwood, we believe in the inherent value of every person. Our neurodiversity-affirming principles and the Quaker faith beautifully align in their deep respect for each individual's unique contributions.
Our vision is to honor each person, walking alongside them on their unique path of discovery, growth, and purpose. We celebrate different ways of thinking and being, nurturing curiosity, reflection, and compassion in every child.
A Welcoming Community for All
You do not need to be a Quaker to attend Heartwood. We warmly welcome families of all backgrounds and beliefs.
What truly distinguishes our learning environment is how we intentionally create space for every child to thrive, respect diverse perspectives, and foster an atmosphere of inquiry and empathy.
Meeting for Worship: A Time for Reflection
A central practice in Quaker schools is Meeting for Worship. This is a regular, quiet time where students and staff gather for inward reflection and listening.
At Heartwood, our meetings are thoughtfully designed to be flexible and developmentally appropriate for all students, recognizing that regulation is an essential precursor to meaningful reflection.
Cultivating the Inner Light
Our Quaker roots inspire us to see the "Light" in every person, building a learning space where all are valued and supported.
This fundamental belief helps our students grow not only in knowledge but also in kindness, confidence, and a deep respect for others. We nurture the inner light of each student while helping them grow into thoughtful, compassionate members of a greater whole.
Much of our work centers on relationships, meaning we focus on cultivating awareness and connection to self, others, and the wider community.