Where Learners Take Flight

Friendship Day School for the Sciences and the Arts is a K–5 private school located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Open to youth of all faiths and ethnicities, we offer students a rigorous and accelerated program within a caring environment. Our program educates and enhances student learning through engagement, exploration, and evaluation of the world through the lens of science. Our curriculum is complemented by universal spiritual core values designed to support curious scholars who will approach and solve local and global issues. This year we will explore project-based learning to enhance the educational experience.

From the Desk of Mrs. McKinley

Greetings to the Friendship Day School Families and Prospective Scholars,

Mrs. McKinley

It is an honor to be the Head of School for Friendship Day School. My name is Ashley McKinley and I have had the distinct pleasure of serving in many capacities throughout my 16-year career in education. With a background in both elementary education and counseling (B.A. from UNCC and master’s from Winthrop University) I have experience as a language arts teacher, school counselor, and assistant principal. I obtained an administrative license from Wingate University and most recently served as an assistant principal at a middle school that enrolls 1,100 students. In that role, I gained considerable administrative experience that has groomed me for my duties as Friendship Day Head of School. I believe that all students can learn at high levels and that it is our responsibility as educators to have high expectations while also meeting students at their level of need.

The journey to becoming the head of school for Friendship Day School has been one in which my steps have been ordered. I have been fortunate to have amazing mentors who have helped me become the woman and educator I am today. One of those mentors is my mother who is a retired elementary school teacher. I have an outstanding immediate and extended family including my husband Clem and two beautiful sons Cannon (five) and Cohen (one).

To our prospective scholars and families, you will be pleased to know that Friendship Day prides itself on being a safe and nurturing environment with a dynamic curriculum and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We cannot wait for you to join the FDS family! 

Sincerely,

Ashley McKinley

Head of School
Friendship Day School for The Sciences and The Arts