Abby Botts
School Counselor and Secondary School Placement Coordinator
 

I’m passionate about helping students discover who they are and what their strengths are. Working at Princeton Friends allows me to truly engage with students during classroom counseling lessons, as well as in a variety of individual and group counseling settings. In my work, I aim to help students be independent, solve problems, and feel confident about themselves.

I’m constantly inspired by our students. If you want a creative solution to a problem, ask a kid! I am also surrounded by amazing teachers and it’s great to get into classrooms to see the creative learning and conversations that occur on a daily basis.

I bring to my role a foundation in anthropology from the University of Virginia and a Master of Science in School Counseling from Gwynedd-Mercy University, along with certification as a PreK–12 school counselor.

When I’m not at school, you can find me enjoying time with my family and friends, with my dog, at the gym, or reading a book. I love playing guitar, yoga, and traveling.

Claudia Block 
Lead Preschool Advisor

In my teaching, I strive to create an environment where everyone is accepted and celebrated for who they are. Each student is unique in their interests and how they learn. Together, we support each other and learn from one another. 

I love watching students achieve their goals.  At the preschool level that may include completing a puzzle, building a special structure with blocks or climbing a certain play structure. Children feel a sense of accomplishment and pride when they complete these tasks and I love sharing in their joy and excitement. 

Outside the classroom, I enjoy being with my friends and family including visiting my son who now lives in New York City.  I love to exercise, cook, and take my dog Harry on long walks in the park. I am passionate about rescuing dogs and have volunteered with a few local shelters.

Eileen Bray
School Nurse

Eileen Bray brings deep expertise, calm presence, and a whole-child philosophy to her role as School Nurse at Princeton Friends School. With years of experience in pediatric and school health settings, she is dedicated to creating a safe, nurturing environment where every student is cared for.

Eileen works closely with students, families, and faculty to support daily health needs, manage chronic conditions, and promote habits that strengthen physical and emotional wellbeing. Known for her warm care, quick thinking, and reassuring smile, Eileen helps students feel comfortable, confident, and cared for, whether they’re visiting for a scraped knee, a quiet moment, or help navigating a new health challenge.

When not on campus you can find Eileen traveling and spending time with family.

Jessica Carabelli 
Kindergarten Advisor 

I believe that every child has a unique light within them and that their voice matters. In my classroom, I strive to create a space where students feel seen, heard, and valued. I intentionally weave student interests into our collective learning throughout the year, helping to build a strong sense of community and encouraging each child to bring their full self into the classroom.

One of the things I value most about teaching at Princeton Friends is the opportunity to form close, meaningful relationships with students and their families. I believe that truly understanding my students begins with building a bridge to their home lives and families, and educators are partners in learning, and that partnership is essential to each child’s success.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family. I’m blessed with a wonderful husband, two amazing children, and our beloved dog. Together, we love to travel, explore new places, and experience life as a family. These moments inspire me and remind me of the joy in learning through curiosity, connection, and shared adventure.

Mary D'Amore
Registrar

I bring a 20-year background in information technology at Princeton Friends School that informs the way I support all of our registrar, financial, and donor databases at the systems level. I aim to support parents, faculty, and staff users of the school’s information systems. I’m constantly inspired by our teaching staff: their academic talent and passion for each of their students define our school.

When I’m not at school, you can find me writing. I have written and illustrated 17 children’s books and have a soon-to-be-published literary novel.

Devin DeShields
Director of Enrollment & Financial Aid

I strive to provide a welcoming, informative, and equitable experience for prospective and current families seeking guidance and support in the enrollment process at Princeton Friends School. I believe in the value of independent schools and constantly seek to make the admission and enrollment process as accessible and inclusive as possible.

One of my favorite moments in my role is when, through conversation with a prospective family, I witness the proverbial lightbulb moment when the family begins to see why Princeton Friends is the best match for them.

When I’m not at school, you can find me coaching my kids’ soccer or basketball teams, going to dance practice and performances, cooking Sunday brunch, working out at the gym, or finding a silent space to sort and fold eight loads of laundry while I rewatch The Office.

Amanda Detherage
Director of Learning Support & 3rd Grade Advisor 

I bring a background in literacy education that informs how I teach young people to read and write, as well as how I nurture a love of literature and learning. My training and implementation of Orton-Gillingham methods have allowed me to witness remarkable growth in readers at various stages in their academic journeys. I hold a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist certification from CERI and a K–12 reading specialist state certification.

One of my favorite moments in the classroom is when children discover they can do something they previously thought impossible. “We can read three-syllable words now!” exclaimed a first grader.
When I’m not at school, you can find me planning my family’s next trip—whether it’s a jaunt to Philly or an excursion in Costa Rica.

Barbara Downing 
Business Office Manager

As business manager, the most important part of my job is overseeing the financial health of the school, from payroll to accounts payable and receivable, so that teachers and students can focus fully on learning. Working at Princeton Friends allows me to do the work I like to do while being part of a place filled with purpose and care.

I spend my free time with family and friends, and I love to read—especially when I can share favorite books and stories with the people close to me.

Suzy Dwyer
Librarian, Social Studies Teacher, and 6th-8th Grade Advisor

As the school librarian, my goal is to make the library the heart of our community—a cozy, welcoming space where students feel at home and excited to explore. I love when the library buzzes with energy, whether it’s kids swapping book recommendations, settling into a comfy chair to enjoy a picture book, or making the next installment of their zine.

I’m passionate about connecting students with books they actually want to read, which means keeping up with new titles and getting to know our readers—their quirks, their questions, and their ever-changing tastes. I believe the library belongs to the students, and I work hard to make sure they feel that sense of ownership and pride in the space.

When I’m not helping someone find their next favorite read, you’ll probably find me strolling down a tree-lined street in Mexico City, trying a new restaurant with my family, or mountain biking with my husband.

Burgess Ekman
Social Studies Teacher and 6th-8th Advisor

In my classroom, I love creating learning experiences that let students explore concepts of social justice and civic engagement as we learn about different historic eras. There’s nothing better than seeing a class respond to a project with creative engagement. My goal is to make that learning fun, even when tackling complicated ideas and facts.

The best part of teaching at Princeton Friends is being in a grounded community that embraces the complex facets of every person—student, faculty, or administrator. We do things together as a community—we dance and sing, take on projects, and every spring, retreat together as a whole school. That deep knowing of one another undergirds our work and makes space for risk-taking and growth.

Outside the classroom, you can find me gardening, hanging out with my dogs and family in the preserve behind my house, or, in the winter, curled up with a good read in front of a fire. My current goal is to rekindle my art practice through pencils and photography.

Dylan Fruh
Art Teacher and 6th-8th Grade Advisor

In my teaching, I strive to foster a classroom environment that emphasizes collaboration and the exchange of ideas. As an art teacher, I act as a co-learner and mentor, bringing curiosity and drive into the classroom while encouraging students to explore their ideas.

Projects should stem from student interests and allow for choice, giving students a sense of ownership and pride in their work. I encourage experimentation and risk-taking—I want my students to know that mistakes can lead to great discoveries in art, and that the unexpected can help them grow.

The best part of teaching at Princeton Friends is incorporating nature into my teaching, whether it's making dyes and pigments from foraged plants or bringing students to the woods for inspiration.

When I’m not at school, you can find me climbing and enjoying the outdoors or engaging in my own artistic practice—printmaking, weaving, and video art.

Peter Gaines
Head of School

With over 25 years of school experience, Peter is a dedicated and experienced leader in Quaker progressive education, known for his deep commitment to fostering community, equity, and joyful learning.

Most recently, Peter has served in pivotal roles at Tandem Friends School in Charlottesville, Virginia, including Assistant Head of School for Mission & Values and Director of Major Giving. He has cultivated an authentic culture of philanthropy as the school’s first major gifts officer, securing significant philanthropic support to advance Tandem’s goals and mission. His commitment to Quaker practice and values is evident in his mentorship of faculty and staff and in engaging families and community partners in the mission.

Peter’s leadership has extended to strategic planning, spiritual life, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. He co-clerked a two-year strategic planning process, partnered with trustees to enhance philanthropic culture, and worked closely with Tandem’s Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to introduce and facilitate Seeking Educational Equity and Justice (SEED) programming across the school. As Upper School Director, Peter was instrumental in Tandem’s substantial growth (nearly 50% in enrollment) and programmatic innovation, seeing it through the challenges of the pandemic and helping develop an interdisciplinary curriculum.

Peter started his education career as a teacher, counselor, and admissions professional at the Steppingstone Scholars Program and then Abington Friends School, both in the Philadelphia region. He next went to University Liggett School in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, where he served as Head of Upper School, Director of the Detroit City Project, and Dean of Students. There, he led initiatives focused on student support, institutional growth, and community partnerships, including collaborating with school leadership to establish meaningful connections with community organizations in Detroit. He also facilitated a community-wide SEED program, and supported the development of a four-year Academic Research Program and the implementation of an age-appropriate advising curriculum. 

Peter’s educational background includes an MFA in Poetry from Warren Wilson College and a BA with honors distinction in English from Colby College. He is a graduate of the Institute for Engaging Leadership in Friends Schools. His dedication to Quaker values, student-centered learning, and community building makes him an inspiring leader poised to enrich the Princeton Friends School community.

When not on campus, Peter can be found with his wife and their two daughters, reading (and occasionally writing) poetry, hiking, and (during the summer months) swimming in the early morning. Now that his oldest daughter is at Virginia Tech, he enjoys cheering on the Hokies, though in terms of professional allegiances, the Phillies and Eagles are second only to his original hometown teams, the Orioles and Ravens.

Jessica Hurwitz
First and Second Grade Advisor

My classroom is guided by the belief that school should be a joyful place where academic, social, and emotional learning are deeply entwined. When students feel known, appreciated, and supported by their classmates and teachers, they are able to engage their sense of wonder, ask questions, make mistakes, and grow.

I love watching students support and celebrate one another, whether they’re helping a classmate read a tricky word, coaching a friend across the monkey bars, or rushing into the hallway to welcome back a classmate who’s been absent. Princeton Friends is a place where learning and community are authentic, engaging, and kind—and I can't imagine teaching anywhere else.

When I’m not at school, you can find me taking adult-beginner ballet classes, curled up on the sofa with a book, or enjoying long walks with friends.

Nicholas Kirchhoff
Preschool Assistant Teacher

The best part of teaching at Princeton Friends is watching our youngest learners light up as they discover their interests and love of learning. I bring empathy, enthusiasm, and patience to my role as a teacher, along with over 16 years of experience at Princeton Friends—as a camper, camp counselor, substitute, and counseling intern—while also finishing my MSW degree.

I spend my free time tackling tricky puzzles with whimsical shapes, getting lost in a good show or movie, and enjoying walks whenever I can.

Samantha Kirkenir
Director of Operations 

My work at Princeton Friends is shaped by my own experiences here as a young person. As a camper at the summer camp in middle school, and then working in the after-school program right out of high school, my time here has been full of learning and joy—something I strive to share with everyone who walks in the door.

I’m inspired by the people around me. Folks at Princeton Friends are driven to keep learning alongside our students, and it’s such a special gift when students see that we’re just as curious and excited about their interests. I love watching students discover that it’s okay to play. Our campus is designed for exploration, creative risk-taking, and outdoor moments. One of my favorite parts of teaching is hearing laughter and excitement during a lesson.

When I’m not at school, you can find me reading a good book, kayaking on a lake, or enjoying a very large iced coffee. I also love gardening, hiking, fishing, and exploring the woods around Princeton and Blairstown.

Freya Liu (Fangyuan)
Mandarin Teacher

In my teaching, I strive to create a vibrant, inclusive, and expressive Chinese learning environment. I am committed to enabling students to not only master language skills, but also experience the richness of Chinese culture.

My classroom is guided by the belief that language is a bridge of communication and a key to understanding the world. I focus on interaction, practice, and cultural experiences that bring learning to life.
One of my favorite moments is when students' eyes light up as they understand a new word, express an idea successfully, or uncover cultural connections. These “aha” moments inspire me.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy practicing Chinese calligraphy with music, reading novels, working out, and capturing moments with photography. I love exploring cultural activities, unique restaurants, and natural scenery in and around Princeton.

Patrick Lynch
Science Teacher and 4th-5th Grade Advisor

In my teaching, I strive to build connections, create authentic learning experiences, meet each student where they are, and have fun. My background in Earth sciences, physical geography, and cartography that informs the way I present information and creates openings for students to creatively express their learning in ways that relate to our local environment, are student driven, and give students the freedom to express their understanding based on their strengths. I aim to help students enjoy the learning experience and care about the process, not just the end result.

Teaching at Princeton Friends allows me to push myself as an educator by creating curricula that incorporate important social science topics and hopefully spurs student interest in the sciences. I’m passionate about helping students discover how they learn best while focusing on their strengths. It’s important that they understand that science class is their class, and one in which they can learn in a comfortable, accepting, and challenging environment. I’m constantly inspired by the students’ critical thinking and willingness to learn in challenging outdoor environments and love when I stop during class to take a look around, seeing students work like a well-oiled machine in the Stony Brook when conducting authentic and meaningful scientific studies.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy being with my family and making each other laugh, and I love my dogs. And nothing beats watching my daughter play soccer. I spend my free time listening to music, planning trips to explore new cities, train systems, or pizzerias, playing soccer, running, biking, or swimming in saltwater. I’m also passionate about Pittsburgh sports, FC Barcelona, Aston Villa, and New Haven pizza.

Melissa Marinari
Director of Teaching & Learning and Social Studies Teacher

In my teaching, I strive to create connections and curiosity with the goal of making students feel valued and motivated to explore the world around them.  I love creating learning experiences that encourage inquiry, reflection, and active participation in addressing real-world issues.  I bring a background in anthropology and Comparative Education that informs the way I foster the exploration and understanding of diverse perspectives in my teaching.

The best part of teaching at Princeton Friends is witnessing kids be truly valued for who they are while they experience the challenges and changes that come with learning. I’m constantly inspired by students’ innate curiosity and their capacity for empathy and I’m passionate about helping students discover their potential as change-makers and advocates for justice.

When I’m not at school, you can find me spending time with my family and friends.  I love to read, explore new places, and learn new things. I love learning and practicing Spanish, spending time in NYC, reading historical fiction, and napping!

Susan Miller
Admissions Assistant & Special Projects Assistant

In my work with Admissions, I strive to get to know each family—what they value and how that aligns with Princeton Friends School’s Quaker, outdoor, progressive curriculum. Sometimes that means introducing a family to what we value most, and inviting them to find connections and synergy.

My work is shaped by my experiences as a parent, a Quaker, and a former PreK teacher. I try to let those experiences season how I interact with families and students. I’m constantly inspired by students discovering something new or reconnecting with a past idea. Some arrive after more traditional school experiences, and seeing them rediscover joy and trust in learning is extraordinary.

When I’m not at school, you can find me singing, curled up with a book, or enjoying a peaceful walk in the woods.

Saurora Mirkin
English Teacher & 6th-8th Grade Advisor 

I believe in every child’s right to be themselves. I believe everyone wants to learn and that we all learn best when we feel safe and seen. I believe that strong literacy skills are among life’s most important tools, and I love all the ways that language can help us express ourselves.

As a teacher at PFS, I feel lucky to be able to center my teaching on the needs of my students, to work without the limitations of grades, and to learn in (and from) our beautiful natural setting. I also appreciate all the collaborative projects we have the opportunity to engage in, and the ways these experiences remind us how fun it can be when we learn together.

Outside of school, I enjoy writing, baking, running, hanging out with my cats, and spending time with family. 

Luke Nilsson
Director of Facilities

I bring a background in construction, project management, supervision, contract negotiations, policy revision, and interdisciplinary systems management. I’m passionate about helping students discover the outdoors and their own abilities through hands-on learning.

When I’m not at school, you can find me hiking to my favorite fishing spot.

Kofi Obeng
Assistant Head of School for Community & Belonging

I bring a background in educational leadership and policy, which informs how I support students and colleagues through evidence-based practices and conversations about intent versus impact.

My teaching is shaped by my experience as a first-generation American. I see education as a path to community and mobility, and I center instruction on positive identity development. I love visiting classrooms and seeing all the ways learning can look and sound. Princeton Friends lets me learn and laugh with students, explore current events in developmentally appropriate ways, and model how to think rather than what to think.

When I’m not at school, you can find me building with Legos with my daughter, watching the New England Patriots, or getting lost on a trail. I also love music, creative writing, anthropology, and sports.

Bhumi Patel
Math Teacher and 4th-5th Grade Advisor

In my teaching, I strive to foster a love of learning and create a classroom where a community of learners feels comfortable asking questions and helping one another. I love watching students have "aha" moments when they make connections across concepts, and I find great joy in seeing them recognize their growth over time.

When I’m not at school, you can often find me relaxing with a book—physical or audio. I also love spending time with my family, cooking, and traveling.

Daniel Potter
Music and Math Teacher, 6th-8th Grade Advisor, and Educational Technology Coordinator

I bring a background in folk music and dance that informs how I build community through my teaching. I grew up attending music and dance camps with my family and learned early on the power of singing and dancing in intergenerational groups.

At Princeton Friends, our weekly all-school singing and dancing builds those same connections. Rooted in Feierabend, Kodály, and Orff pedagogy, my music classroom is full of active music-making across all ages. Whether composing digital music or playing a drum, every student finds a musical voice.

Outside of school, I perform with Handsome Molly, help run the Princeton All-Ages Folk Dance, and participate in English, Scottish, and contra dance. I also direct the Riverside Ringers, a volunteer adult handbell choir in New York City.

Molly Plunkett 
Data Assistant 

In my work, I strive to be friendly, courteous and professional toward all. I make an effort to fulfill each duty in a timely manner.

I am constantly inspired by the comparison between the Princeton Friends School in my memories as a former student turned employee, and the modern changes that, while drastic in some cases, often still embody the original values that I knew in my younger years.

I am also passionate about staying active. I believe that it is not only enjoyable, but important to be outside and hike, bike, walk or otherwise be out and about. This is why when not at the school I can often be found fishing, hiking, walking, or just tending to my garden at home.

Eleanor Rock
Lower School Science Teacher & Kindergarten Assistant Teacher

I love creating learning experiences that inspire curiosity and creativity. The best classes are those where students connect with each other over the content and let their imaginations lead the learning.

I’m constantly inspired by how a student’s question can spark an entire lesson. At Princeton Friends, we make time to explore those questions deeply—whether it’s asking why there are gaps between trees or investigating something found outdoors.

When I’m not at school, you can find me doodling imaginary castles in the kitchen with a cup of coffee.

Morgan Silk
Assistant Head of School for Strategy & Engagement 

I bring a 20-year background in evidence-based and equity-centered social-emotional learning and health curriculum development, facilitation, and coaching. This work shapes how I approach systems and storytelling, helping support the health of an institution.

Having worked with public and independent schools around the world, I can confidently say that Princeton Friends is one of the finest examples of a school that truly sees and supports young people as they grow. I especially enjoy all opportunities to engage with students, from teaching Yearbook & Publications class to photographing students collecting data at the stream to cheering on our cross country runners. 

When I’m not on campus, you can find me horseback riding with my dog, painting and drawing, or crunching leaves and squishing mud with my kiddos.

Amanda Tally
3rd Grade Advisor

In my teaching, I strive to lift up the whole child and celebrate their unique talents, learning styles, and social-emotional needs. As a graduate of local Quaker schools, I believe deeply in fostering respect for each individual in the classroom.

The best part of teaching at Princeton Friends is witnessing the natural wonder students bring to their surroundings—whether they’ve found a frog outside or discovered a chipmunk habitat. Our students soak up every opportunity to explore.

When I’m not at school, you can find me browsing my local independent bookstore or practicing nature photography.

Marlyn Velez Arellano
Spanish Teacher & 6th-8th Advisor

I love creating learning experiences which connect students to real world situations that are made easier by knowing another language. Teaching at Princeton Friends allows me to be creative and have students immerse in a world language outside of a textbook.

When I’m not at school, you can find me dancing or cooking something new.

Courtney Zakolski
Director of Summer Camps 

My work as Camp Director is shaped by my long history at Princeton Friends—as a former counselor, teacher, and after-school program director. I began part-time while earning my degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, later teaching 1st and 2nd grade, and now designing imaginative, developmentally appropriate summer programming.

The best part of working at Princeton Friends is the deep sense of community. From colleagues to campers, students to families, everyone is seen for who they are. There’s a tangible thread that weaves us together in our shared effort to create the best possible experiences.

In my free time, I feed my imagination and connection by hosting and playing Dungeons & Dragons. I also enjoy crocheting, reading, and cooking.

James Zimmerman
Lower School PE Teacher & Director of After-School Program

I’ve been part of the Princeton Friends School community for more than 26 years, and in that time I’ve had the privilege of teaching and learning alongside generations of children. One of my greatest joys is truly seeing kids for who they are by connecting with their interests, honoring what makes them unique, and helping them grow.

At Princeton Friends, I teach PE for preschool through third grade, offer electives for older students, and serve as Director of the After School Program (ASP). I am also Princeton Friends Summer Camp (PFSC)'s lead camp counselor for our Kungaloosh group every summer. Across these roles, I work to create spaces where movement, imagination, and the Quaker SPICES come to life. I bring a background in acting and storytelling that informs the way I teach, whether I’m creating and guiding a game, crafting a new fun challenge, or encouraging students to "be SPICEy".

The best part of teaching at Princeton Friends is playing with the kids in the woods. Our outdoor spaces give children room to explore, collaborate, and discover who they are and it's fun to witness their imagination at work each day.

When I’m not at school, you can find me working on my hobbies like kitbashing, RPGs, and writing.