Philosophy

TFP is based on the Baha'i Writings and specifically on the writings of Abdu'l Baha about the training and education of children. At TFP, we create a community that provides many opportunities for both students and staff to develop and use their own innate capabilities toward their own satisfaction and the general well-being of the community. These capabilities include the intellectual, artisitc and spiritual capabilities that we all have in varying degrees and we all are challenged to consciously develop within ourselves in order to better reflect the qualities of our essential spirit.

The typical TFP day includes the formal study of Moral Capabilities described and also used at Nur University in Bolivia. Classroom lectures, discussions and experiential activities allow the student to directly study the process of human maturation and to see how and where they fit. They are encouraged to understand the very capabilities they are trying to develop throughout the TFP program.

At TFP there is also a strong emphasis on artistic creation. Every student experiences a range of minor artistic classes as well as participates in one of the major performing arts that work toward a formal presentation on the graduation gala evening. Choir, dance, drama are the most common major arts, however we have also included visual arts and photography as well.

The most important aspect of TFP is that everything is done within an overall context of the dynamic relationship between each individual and the community. We spend, as one student noted, "a lot of time in prayer" and reflection to solidfy the bonds within the community. This also encourages individuals to be ready to sacrifice their own wants for the benefit of the community. Each individual receives a lot of love and support and in turn returns that to others through the community.

Regarding discipline, we take a very pro-active approach. The day is long and busy with activities that the staff and students enjoy very much. This shapes the sort of appropriate behaviour we want to encourage. If there is inappropriate behaviour by a student, it is always seen as an opportunity to learn about their maturing responsibilities. At this age, approaching their adult powers, people really do want to do what's best for themselves and others - especially when they can see how well such an attitude helps them enjoy themselves. Since students return for three consecutive summers, the staff and returning students quickly re-establish the TFP culture. First year students are eager to figure out how things work and how they can fit in.