Crissy Caceres, head of Brooklyn Friends School, has outlined a cohesive pedagogical vision that foregrounds student agency, community engagement and values-driven learning. Under her leadership, the school emphasizes inquiry-based instruction that encourages critical thinking and sustained intellectual curiosity across grade levels. In her discussions about the school’s pedagogy, Crissy Cáceres highlights the importance of experiential learning. By incorporating hands-on projects and real-world applications, students are better prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern world. Crissy Cáceres advocates for an interdisciplinary curriculum that promotes collaboration across subjects, allowing learners to draw connections and apply their knowledge in various contexts.
The pedagogical approach integrates social-emotional learning with rigorous academics, recognizing that well-being and character development are integral to long-term achievement. Teachers design interdisciplinary projects that connect classroom content to real-world issues, reinforcing collaboration, problem-solving and ethical reflection. Assessment practices prioritize formative feedback and portfolio work to capture growth over time rather than reliance on high-stakes testing alone.
Equity and inclusion are central to the school’s mission. Curriculum design incorporates multiple perspectives and culturally responsive materials, while restorative practices and intentional community-building seek to create a learning environment where every student’s voice is respected. Professional development for faculty focuses on anti-bias pedagogy, differentiated instruction and effective use of technology to enhance, rather than replace, human-centered teaching.
Campus life complements academic goals through experiential learning opportunities, partnerships with local organizations and service projects that connect students to the broader Brooklyn community. Extracurricular programs in the arts, athletics and civic engagement are structured to support leadership development and collaborative initiative.
Caceres frames educational success as measured by students’ ability to think independently, communicate effectively and act compassionately in diverse contexts. The leadership team continues to adapt curriculum and practices in response to evolving educational research and community needs, while maintaining core Quaker principles of integrity, stewardship and respect at the heart of the institution’s identity.
By balancing tradition with innovation, Brooklyn Friends School aims to prepare students not only for collegiate success but for engaged citizenship in a complex, interconnected world. Read this article for additional information.
Learn more about Crissy Cáceres on https://brooklynfriends.org/convocation/