Founded in 1784, Friends School of Baltimore is an independent Quaker school serving students from pre-K through grade 12, with Little Friends, an early learning center for children ages 6 weeks to 4 years. In a world where information is abundant but wisdom is scarce, Friends provides a human-centered education that prepares students to navigate complexity, work across differences, and lead with integrity. Through academic rigor, reflective inquiry, creative challenge, and meaningful collaboration, students are prepared for college and equipped for life. Seniors and Senate Co-Presidents Rhys B. and Ellie O. exemplify that experience through their leadership and commitment to their community.
For Rhys, Friends has been a place to explore his passions while learning from people with different perspectives. During his six years at the school, he has found community on the lacrosse field, in music ensembles, as a student government representative, and as a leader of both the Quaketones a cappella group and Model United Nations. More than any one activity, though, it is the school’s culture that has left the greatest impression. “The Quaker values are an aspect of the school that shapes students,” Rhys says. “The community always feels like a safe environment, and there are so many walks of life, yet we all connect and come together in such a great way.”
Ellie has grown up at Friends and discovered that leadership begins with listening. Whether captaining the field hockey and lacrosse teams, mentoring younger students as a Peer Educator and tutor, or serving as Senate Co-President, she values opportunities to build connections across the community. She credits Friends’ discussion-based classrooms with helping her find her voice. “Teachers don’t just lecture; they encourage students to ask questions, share ideas, and actively participate in their learning,” she says. “Every student’s voice is heard and valued.”
Although their interests are different, Rhys and Ellie share an appreciation for a school that values every voice and prepares students to lead lives of purpose.
This article is part of our 2026-2027 Guide to Baltimore Independent School Guide.
