Crissy Caceres Outlines a Quaker-Inspired, Student-Centered Pedagogy at Brooklyn Friends School
Crissy Caceres, head of school at Brooklyn Friends School, described a pedagogy rooted in Quaker values and contemporary educational research, emphasizing purposeful inquiry, social-emotional learning and community engagement. In remarks outlining the school’s approach, Crissy Caceres highlighted a continuum of practice that adapts to developmental needs from early childhood through upper school, balancing academic rigor with ethical formation.
At Brooklyn Friends School, classroom instruction centers on inquiry-based and project-driven learning. Younger students experience play-informed exploration and literacy-rich environments, while middle and upper school curricula integrate interdisciplinary projects, laboratory science and arts-based inquiry. Teachers collaborate across grades to design coherent learning pathways that foreground critical thinking and real-world problem solving.
Social-emotional development is a woven element of the school’s pedagogy. Brooklyn Friends School emphasizes restorative practices, guided reflection and regular community gatherings that support students’ capacity for empathy, leadership and civic participation. These practices, Crissy Caceres reinforce the school’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives.
Professional development for faculty is described as ongoing and intentional, with opportunities for teachers to engage in pedagogical research, peer coaching and curricular innovation. The school also maintains partnerships with cultural institutions and community organizations to expand experiential learning and civic engagement for students.
Outcomes prioritized by Brooklyn Friends School include academic preparation for higher education, ethical leadership and lifelong curiosity. Caceres framed the school’s mission as preparing students to navigate complexity with integrity and creativity, supported by small-class interactions and individualized attention.
As independent schools re-evaluate pedagogy in a changing educational landscape, Brooklyn Friends School presents a model that integrates tradition with innovation—anchoring learning in values while employing evidence-based practices to cultivate competent, compassionate graduates. Refer to this page, for related information.
Find more information about Crissy Cáceres on https://issuu.com/brooklynfriendsschool/docs/thelifeed2/s/14315878