HFS is a Quaker school in which Friends' principles are central. Worship, a time of silence without ritual, is a part of the daily schedule of school life. Each day classes begin with a quiet worship time in the manner of Friends. Meeting for Worship is an unprogrammed formal gathering based on silence, that gives everyone time for reflection and inner listening.
Parents are always welcome to attend weekly Meeting for Worship.
Basic work takes place in these autonomous classrooms, but all students regularly take part as well in activities directed by supplemental and special subject teachers. Because the school is small, there are also many opportunities for interaction between classes. Care in placement at the time of admission usually means that yearly promotion to the next grade occurs routinely. When students successfully complete a grade at HFS, they are academically qualified for acceptance into the next grade level at other public and private schools. Because HFS stresses the fundamentals of elementary education and strives to develop in each child self-reliance, good study habits, and flexibility, graduates are well prepared for their middle and secondary school experience.