First Day School
First Day School (FDS) facilitates religious and spiritual growth and exploration for school-aged children on Sundays. There are a few days FDS is not held for quarterly meeting, potlucks, etc. Childcare is provided every Sunday.
When & Where
FDS runs from mid-September to May in the classroom space at Kennett Friends Meetinghouse. Lessons are held from 9:30 to 10:45 AM each Sunday, coinciding with Adult Discussion. Children are then welcome to join parents and caregivers in worship, or stay with our childcare team until meeting for worship is over.
Content
Classes explore a range of month-long themes within the Quaker testimonies through activities, games, readings, recipes, outdoor exploration, and storytelling. Lesson plans are designed and adapted by our FDS teacher, Samantha Jiles. While they are sometimes inspired by the Faith & Play framework, they always focus on the interests and needs of our students. Everyone on the childcare team (including volunteers), undergoes comprehensive background clearances and screenings.
The 2025-2026 schedule
- September – Quakerism and Friendship
- October – Nature and Autumn
- November – Gratitude
- December – Advent and Giving
- January – Nature and Winter
- February – Love
- March – Nature and Spring
- April – Bible Stories
- May – Quakerism and Friendship
Meet our teacher Samantha Jiles
Samantha Jiles began teaching with KFM in the summer of 2025. She brings experience as a middle and high school English teacher, instructional designer, and youth mentor. She has taught in both Maryland and Pennsylvania, supporting diverse learners through differentiated instruction, online and in-person teaching, and collaboration on student learning plans. Prior to her work in education, she spent nine years as a corporate trainer, developing staff education, leadership skills, and training resources.
I’ve always loved learning and helping others discover the joy in it, too. I’m a certified English teacher for grades 5–8 and hold a master’s degree in Instructional Design and Educational Technology. Originally from San Diego, I now call Kennett Square home, where I’m raising my two daughters with my fiancé. I currently work as an Instructional Designer at the Barber National Institute, creating meaningful and engaging learning experiences. At the Friends Meeting, I bring that same creativity and care to First Day School, where I design hands-on lessons that explore the environment and core Quaker values like equality, peace, and kindness.
To get in touch with Samantha or anyone on our care team, please contact the Religious Education Committee via the contact information below.
How to contact us
For more information, reach out to Selina Toedter at coordinator@kennettfriends.org. In-person visits on Sundays are also welcome!