Head Of School
A Message from Dr. Kim Blake
Dear Friends School Haverford Community,
I am deeply honored to serve as the Head of School at Friends School Haverford. As I step into this role, I do so with a profound appreciation for the legacy of Quaker values that have guided this community since its founding in 1885 and a deep belief in the transformative power of early childhood education.
The earliest years of a child’s life are among the most important. Long before children are preparing for high school, college, or careers, they are developing the qualities that will shape them for a lifetime: confidence, curiosity, resilience, empathy, independence, and a love of learning. The experiences children have during these formative years influence not only what they know, but who they become. The investments we make in our youngest learners today help shape the character, intelligence, and sense of self they will carry into adulthood.
That is what makes Friends School Haverford such a special place. Every day, our students are surrounded by educators who understand child development deeply and who recognize that meaningful learning happens through exploration, relationships, play, and discovery. Our intentional nature-based curriculum provides children with opportunities to wonder, investigate, take risks, and develop a genuine connection to the world around them. It is a joyful approach to learning that honors childhood while laying the foundation for lifelong success.
As I begin my twentieth year in education, I am especially proud to work alongside a faculty whose expertise and dedication are evident in every classroom. My journey has taken me from the classroom as a teacher to roles as a school leader and assistant superintendent, but some of my greatest professional joy comes from supporting the growth of educators. Investing in our teachers through coaching, mentorship, and professional learning is one of the most meaningful aspects of my work because I see the immediate impact it has on children. When teachers grow, students thrive, and at Friends School Haverford, that connection is visible every day.
While I bring a wealth of experience to this role, I also recognize that every new community offers opportunities to listen, learn, and grow. I look forward to partnering with families, faculty, and staff as we continue to build upon the school’s strong foundation and envision an exciting future together.
On a personal note, community and connection are central to both my professional and personal life. I begin each day with time for reading and reflection, which helps me approach each day with purpose and gratitude. My husband, Sean, and I enjoy spending time outdoors with our daughters, Grace (5) and Bridget (3), exploring local parks and cheering them on in their many activities. I also have a passion for storytelling and am currently writing a memoir, inspired by my belief that sharing our stories helps us build understanding, empathy, and meaningful connections with others.
I look forward to getting to know each of you in the months ahead. You will find me on campus, at events, and in classrooms, learning alongside our students and celebrating the remarkable work happening throughout our community. I encourage you to share your thoughts, memories, and hopes for Friends School Haverford as we continue this journey together.
Together, we will honor our traditions while nurturing the next generation of thoughtful, compassionate, and confident learners. It is a privilege to serve this extraordinary community, and I am excited for all that lies ahead.
With deep appreciation and excitement,
Dr. Kimberly Blake
Head of School