Friends Western School, Pasadena K-5 with small classes and ADD/ADHD support. Quaker values, inclusive environment, $14,800 tuition
Friends Western School is a K-5 cooperative elementary school in Pasadena, CA that welcomes students with diverse learning needs, including those with ADD/ADHD. Founded on Quaker principles emphasizing the inner light in each child, the school fosters an ethos of support, encouragement, respect, and kindness—creating an inclusive environment where all learners can thrive. With small class sizes (average 14 students) and a parent-teacher collaborative model, families are actively involved in their child's educational experience.
The school offers ADD/ADHD support services and maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio with 8 classroom teachers serving 47 total students. This intimate setting allows for individualized attention and differentiated instruction, which can be particularly beneficial for students with learning differences who benefit from structured, supportive environments. The casual dress code and emphasis on kindness help create a relaxed, non-judgmental atmosphere.
Tuition is $14,800 per year with a 20% sibling discount available, and approximately 30% of students receive financial aid. Admission uses rolling deadlines with a March 15 priority date. For families seeking a values-based, inclusive K-5 school with specialized support for ADD/ADHD, Friends Western offers an alternative to traditional public schooling. Contact Admissions Director Natalie Zajac at (626) 365-1068 or visit friendswesternschool.org for more information.
| Year Founded | 2001 |
| Yearly Tuition Cost | $14,800 |
| Tuition Notes | FWS offers a sibling discount. The first child enrolls at full tuition; thereafter each sibling receives a 20% discount. There are no sibling discounts for part-time students. |
| Total Students | 47 |
| Total Classroom Teachers | 8 |
| Percent of Faculty with Advanced Degree | 50 |
| Average Class Size | 14 |
| Grades Offered | Kindergarten-5 |
| Admissions Director | Natalie Zajac |
| Admissions Associate | Christie Rainey |
| Admission Deadline | Mar. 15 / rolling |
| Percent on Financial Aid | 30 |
| Student Body Type | Co-ed |
| Percent of Students of Color | 38 |
| Clubs and Organizations | Club or Organization: · Chess Club · Garden Club |
| Classroom Dress Code | Casual |
| School Memberships | Friends Council on Education (FCE) |
| Religious Affiliations | Friends |
| School Calendar | friendswesternschool.org/calendar-events |
Claiming is free. You can correct your contact info, hours, and description so families see accurate details.
Claim This Listing