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Below please find the October 12, 2017 weekly all-school e-newsletter, sent out to all SSFS families each Thursday afternoon with news, photos, upcoming events, and "must-know" info. This information is also available on the website here.

PHOTO of the WEEK

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As part of their fall "food and farms" signature trip, 7th grade students visited Full Cellars Farm in Frederick, MD, run by Kip Kelley, an SSFS alumnus and former MS teacher. The farm practices sustainable methods of agriculture, which the students have been discussing in their science classes. After learning about some of the sustainable practices on the farm, students lent a hand with harvesting edamame beans, clearing the vines from a crop of sweet potatoes, and more. See photos from from the day on Vidigami here.

ALL SCHOOL NEWS

ALL-School "MUST-KNOW" Upcoming Events

The calendar information below is for all-school, cross-divisional events and activities in the coming weeks. Please see the Lower School, Middle School, or Upper School sections for division-specific "must-know" info.

  • Sun, Oct. 15: Admissions Open House, 1:00-3:30 pm RSVP here!
  • Fri, Oct. 20: PA Community Connections Committee Meeting, 8:00-9:00 am, Scott House Conference Room
  • Thurs, Oct. 26: PA Fundraiser - Jersey Mike's Subs: Show flyer between 10:00 am - 9:00 pm and 15% of all proceeds will be donated to SSFS!
  • Thurs, Oct. 26: PA Auction Committee Meeting, 8:15-9:15 am, Scott House Conference Room (Conference line: Dial-in number: 866-894-8254; Participant passcode: 7545542)
  • Fri, Oct. 27: NO CLASSES, Professional Day
  • Sat, Oct. 28: Junior Class Halloween Carnival, 2:00-4:00 pm, Yarnall
  • Wed, Nov. 1: PEP (Parent Encouragement Program) MS event: "Problem Solving with Teens"
  • Thurs, Nov. 2: Careers in Writing Panel: "Writing in the Sciences," 7:15 pm, Yarnall Library
  • Fri-Sun, Nov. 3-5: Golf Getaway Outing (Find out more!)
  • Wed, Nov. 8: Yearbook photo make-up day (for grades 6-11)
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: PA Bow-Making Workshop for Winterfest, 8:00 am - 12:00 noon, Yarnall Lobby
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: PA Meeting, 6:15-7:15 pm, Yarnall Library
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: Open Forum with Head of School Tom Gibian, 7:15-9:00 pm (NOTE: this forum will be streamed live on our YouTube channel. More information and a link will be sent closer to the date.)
  • Fri, Nov. 10: Admissions "Discover SSFS" event, 8:15-11:00 am (RSVP here)
  • Thurs, Nov. 16: PA Greens Workshop for Winterfest, Yarnall Lobby
  • Fri-Sat, Nov. 17-18: Upper School Play, "The Outsiders," 7:15 pm, PAC
  • Sat, Nov. 18: Winterfest, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sun, Nov. 19: Community Play auditions, 5:00-7:00 pm, PAC - Studio B
  • Mon, Nov. 20: Community Play auditions, 3:30-6:00 pm, PAC - Studio B
  • Tues, Nov. 21: Dorm closes for Thanksgiving break, 7:00 pm
  • Wed-Fri, Nov. 22-24: NO SCHOOL, Thanksgiving Break
  • Mon, Nov. 27: NO CLASSES, Professional Day (Dorm opens at 12:00 noon)

Scientists and Journalists Discuss Writing in the Sciences, Nov. 2
Writing Center Logo

How can scientists most effectively communicate their work to a larger audience? What's behind the recent debate over the validity of scientific research? How does the message get lost between scientists and the public? What's it like to spend your career writing about science?

This year's "Careers in Writing" event is a panel discussion entitled "Writing in the Sciences." We'll host experts in science writing to discuss their careers and emphasize the importance of clear communication to the field of science.

Nell Greenfieldboyce is a science and technology correspondent with National Public Radio who has reported about topics as varied as pet cloning, gene therapy, ballistics, and federal regulation of new technology. Dave Goodrich is a venerated climate scientist retired from NOAA and the United Nations. He is also the author of A Hole in the Wind: A Climate Scientist's Bicycle Journey Across the United States. Steven Gimbel is the chair of the Philosophy Department at Gettysburg College and the author of numerous books about the intersection between science and philosophy. They'll all speak with Science department faculty member Sharon Wall in a panel-style discussion with plenty of time for audience questions.

The event is part of an annual speaker series, sponsored by the SSFS Writing Center, which spotlights writing-related careers for students, parents, and faculty/staff. All community members are invited to join us at 7:15 pm on Thursday, November 2, in Yarnall Library. Refreshments will be available, and Goodrich will be selling and signing copies of his book. Students should ask their science teachers about earning extra credit for attending. To reserve your spot, please contact Writing Center Director Ariel Voorhees: ariel.voorhees@ssfs.org.


SSFS Parent Association Information

The Parent Association is made up of ALL school parents and guardians, so we look forward to seeing you at many upcoming events as the year unfolds. Please visit the PA Website to see the 2017-18 PA reps and sign up to volunteer at one of our many fun events throughout the year.

Upcoming Events (Click here to see other PA Events scheduled for 2017-18)

  • Thurs, Oct. 19: PA Winterfest Meeting, 8:00 am, Scott House Conference Room
  • Fri, Oct. 20: PA Community Connections Committee Meeting, 8:00-9:00 am, Scott House Conference Room
  • Thurs, Oct. 26: PA Fundraiser - Jersey Mike's Subs: Show flyer between 10:00 am - 9:00 pm and 15% of all proceeds will be donated to SSFS!
  • Thurs, Oct. 26: PA Auction Committee Meeting - 8:15 am, Scott House (Call in information: Conference line: Dial-in number: 866-894-8254; Participant passcode: 7545542.)
  • Potluck Dinners: Every Fall the PA encourages each class to hold a potluck or other child free event for parents to get to know each other. As classes schedule these events we will list them in the Newsletter. We hope to see this list grow over the next couple of weeks:
    • October 14: PK3, Kindergarten, 3rd Grade, 10th Grade
    • October 15: 4th Grade
    • October 21: 6th Grade; 7th Grade; 2nd Grade Happy Hour
    • October 28: 9th Grade
  • Wed, Nov. 1: PEP (Parent Encouragement Program) MS event: "Problem Solving with Teens"

  • Winterfest FlyerSaturday, November 18, Winterfest! We have a new date for the coming year: Winterfest 2017 will be held on Saturday, Nov. 18--before the holiday rush. (Find out more about Winterfest here),

Final Empty Bowl Making/Glazing Events

Empty BowlsBelow are the links to our final Empty Bowl making and glazing sessions of the year. Reserve a spot to join in this fun activity as we fill quickly. We will make a few final bowls during the first session, and then we will start glazing the many beautiful bowls that are awaiting color. Please use one line per person attending as we have very limited space. We would also appreciate that if your plans change, you please remove your name from the sign up so others may join.

  • Saturday, October 10/21, 2:00-5:00 pm (please note the different times!) - RSVP here
  • Sunday, October 10/29, 1:00-4:00 pm - RSVP here
  • Saturday, November 11/18, 1:00-4:00 pm - RSVP here
  • Saturday, December 12/2, 1:00-4:00 pm - RSVP here


2018 Community Play Auditions

Sound of Music
We are thrilled to announce that the 2018 SSFS Community Play will be the beloved classic Rogers and Hammerstein's musical, The Sound of Music. The performance dates will be Thurs-Sat, Feb. 22-24 at 7:00 pm, and Sunday, Feb 25 at 2:00 pm in the Performing Arts Center.

Audition Dates (You only need to come to one of the auditions)

  • Sunday, November 19 from 5:00-7:00 pm
  • Monday, November 20 from 3:30-6:00 pm

For the audition form and more information about the show, please refer to the Community Play website here. Everyone in the SSFS community: parents, grandparents, staff members, students, alumni, etc., is welcome to audition for the community play! Hope to see you at auditions!


Cheer on the 'Beests in End-of-Season Home Games!
MS Volleyball

Go Beests! Our Fall sports season is wrapping up. Come cheer on the Beasts at these end of season home games:

Friday, October 13

  • Women's JV Volleyball – last Home game,
  • Women's Varsity Volleyball – last Home game vs Oakcrest. (Playoffs – Nov 2, 3, 5)
  • MS Boys Soccer (Gold) – last Home game vs WIS

Monday, October 16

  • MS Boys Soccer (Green) – last Home game vs Hebrew Academy (Playoffs – Oct 19, 23, 25)
  • MS Girls Soccer – last Home game vs Hebrew Academy (Playoffs – Oct 19, 23, 25)
  • MS Girls Volleyball – last Home Game vs WIS. (Playoffs – Oct 19, 23, 25)

Thursday, October 19

  • Men's Varsity Soccer – last Home game vs Jewish Day School (Playoffs to follow)
  • Men's JV Soccer – last Home game vs Good Counsel

Men's SoccerWomen's Varsity Soccer
See some action shots from previous games this fall from the following teams in Vidigami--and feel free to upload your own!


Laps for Lexi - THANK YOU!
Laps for Lexi

Thank you so very much for helping to make our 8th Annual Laps for Lexi a huge success! It was wonderful - a beautiful morning filled with so many of Lexi's loves: purple balloons, dogs, Care Bears, baked goodies, nail polish, family, friends and much more.

We are incredibly grateful to the entire SSFS community - students, parents, faculty, staff and trustees - for so many acts of kindness. It is humbling how many of you gave your energy, time, and money to support us in honoring Lexi and others fighting cancer. We are blown away by the number of people (kids and adults) asking, "what can I do to help?" An extra special shout out to the many people who came to the bloodmobile to donate (or try to donate). From the bottom of our hearts we thank each and every one of you for all that you did to make the day so wonderful.

We raised over $100,000 for the Lexi Speight Chair in Pediatric Oncology at Children's National Medical Center and the Lexi Speight Scholarship Fund here at SSFS! Together, we ARE making a difference.

If you would like to see the 5K results please click here.

Again, we thank you for your support and we hope you'll come to the 9th Annual Laps For Lexi on September 29, 2018!


SSFS Golf and Spa Getaway - Sign Up Now!

Join us November 3-5 for the second annual SSFS Golf and Spa Getaway! Last year's golf event was a smashing success, and we are excited to be adding a spa package to the weekend! Visit www.ssfs.org/events/golf-getaway for more information and to register.


Upper School Play: "The Outsiders" - Save the Date!
The Outsiders - US Play Poster

What: Upper School student production of The Outsiders, based on the book by S. E. Hinton and adapted for the stage by Christopher Sergel
When: November 17, 18 @ 7:15 pm
Where: Sandy Spring Friends School Performing Arts Center
Cost: Admission is free for students and there is a $10 suggested donation for adults (cash only please).
Who: The play has some stage violence and deals with adult topics. Suitable for students grades 6 and up.

As timely as it was when the book was first published in 1967, The Outsiders is a dramatic coming of age story about a teen gang growing up in rural Oklahoma. The poor Greasers are constantly at odds with the Socials, a rival group. When Greasers Ponyboy and Johnny get into a brawl that ends with deadly consequences, they are forced into hiding. Soon Ponyboy and Johnny, along with their other Greaser friends, must contend with the consequences of their violent lives. While some try to achieve redemption, others meet tragic ends. Author S. E. Hinton was only 15 years old when she began writing this story inspired by her own high school, and thus the story is very compelling for young teens. The story was re-imagined in a well-loved Francis Ford Coppola film in 1983. You will be blown away by this powerful story in Sandy Spring Friends School's Upper School production. The play does have some stage violence and deals with adult topics. For reference, the film was rated PG. Admission is free for students and there is a $10 suggested donation for adults. No advance ticket sales. Open Seating. Feel free to email the director, Julie Borsetti, with any questions.


Financial Aid 2018-2019

Do you have questions about financial aid? Are you considering applying for financial aid for the first time? Is your child moving into another division? Are you considering SSFS for another child for the 2018-2019 school year? If any of these questions apply and you would like to discuss financial aid, please contact Dawn Griffith, Director of Financial Aid, at dawn.griffith@ssfs.org or x231.

The online TADS application is available beginning October 1st. Current families receiving financial assistance as well as families applying for consideration for the next school year should be complete the TADS financial aid application and submit all required tax documentation before December 1st. More information about TADS and the financial aid process is available on the SSFS website.


 

LOWER SCHOOL NEWS

LS "MUST-KNOW" Upcoming Events

Below is information about upcoming LS events. For questions or more information about an event, please contact Pam Gilmer, LS Administrative Assistant, at ext. 112 or pam.gilmer@ssfs.org.

  • Thurs-Fri, Oct. 12-13: 5th Grade Camping Trip
  • Fri, Oct. 13: Packing Smart Sacks, 8:15 am, Westview Dining Hall
  • Sun, Oct. 15: Admissions Open House, 1:00–3:30 pm RSVP here
  • Mon, Oct. 16: 3rd Grade to Skyline Caverns
  • Tues, Oct. 17: Coffee & Conversation w/ Lower School Head Brenda Crawley, 8:30am, Scott House
  • Tues, Oct. 17: 2nd Grade to Colvin Run Mill
  • Fri, Oct. 20: Packing Smart Sacks, 8:15 am, Westview Dining Hall
  • Thurs, Oct. 26: PK4/K to Sharp's at Waterford Farm
  • Thurs, Oct. 26: 4th Grade to Montgomery County Recycling Center
  • Fri, Oct. 27: NO SCHOOL, LS Parent Teacher Conferences
  • Sat, Oct. 28: Junior Class Halloween Carnival, 2:00-4:00 pm, Yarnall (more info to come!)
  • Tues, Oct. 31: LS Halloween Parade and Autumn Social, 2:30 pm (ends at carpool pick-up time)
  • Wed, Nov. 1: LS Parent Conferences, 2:30-5:00 pm
  • Thurs, Nov. 2: Careers in Writing Panel: "Writing in the Sciences," 7:15 pm, Yarnall Library
  • Fri, Nov. 3: Packing Smart Sacks, 8:15 am, Westview Dining Hall
  • Fri-Sun, Nov. 3-5: Golf Getaway Outing (Find out more!)
  • Mon, Nov. 6: MS Information Night, 6:30-8:00 pm, Middle School Smith Collection Space
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: PA Bow-Making Workshop for Winterfest, 8:00 am - 12:00 noon, Yarnall Lobby
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: PA Meeting, 6:15-7:15 pm, Yarnall Library
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: Open Forum with Head of School Tom Gibian, 7:15-9:00 pm, Yarnall Library
  • Fri, Nov. 10: Admissions "Discover SSFS" event, 8:15-11:00 am (RSVP here)
  • Thurs, Nov. 16: PA Greens Workshop for Winterfest, Yarnall Lobby
  • Fri-Sat, Nov. 17-18: Upper School Play, "The Outsiders," 7:15 pm, PAC
  • Sat, Nov. 18: Winterfest, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sun, Nov. 19: Community Play auditions, 5:00-7:00 pm, PAC - Studio B
  • Mon, Nov. 20: Community Play auditions, 3:30-6:00 pm, PAC - Studio B
  • Tues, Nov. 21: Dorm closes for Thanksgiving break, 7:00 pm
  • Wed-Fri, Nov. 22-24: NO SCHOOL, Thanksgiving Break
  • Mon, Nov. 27: NO CLASSES, Professional Day (Dorm opens at 12:00 noon)

Oct. 17: Coffee & Conversation with Brenda Crawley

Come and join in the conversation with Brenda Crawley on Tuesday morning at 8:30 am in Scott House. The topics of the morning's discussion are:

  • Advocating for your Lower School Child
  • Resisting, Resilience & Readiness

We hope to see you there!


LS Photos Are In!

LS photo packets were sent home on Tuesday, Oct. 10. Returned unopened photo packets or payments ($35/packet, check made payable to Stone Photography) are due now! If you have any questions about LS pictures, please contact Pam Gilmer, x112. Thank you!


Smart Sacks Program - Upcoming Dates
Smart Sacks

We will be packing tomorrow --Friday, October 13--immediately after drop off at 8:15 am in Westview.

Additional packing dates for the coming months are as follows:

  • October 20th, packing with 4B
  • November 3rd, packing with 3rd/KA
  • December 1st, packing with 3rd/KB
  • December 8th, packing with 5A/2A

Smart Sacks is a county-wide program started by MANNA food center to help combat children's weekend hunger in Montgomery County. Twice monthly during the MCPS school year, volunteers pack donated food and deliver it to county elementary schools. Children who usually receive free meals at school take a bag of food home every Friday to ensure that they have adequate nutrition throughout the weekend. SSFS lower school students and volunteers support two local elementary schools in this initiative. This is a fun and easy way to do something meaningful with the lower school kids and provide a very worthwhile service to the community. If you are interested in helping out with this ongoing service project please contact KERRY-ANN FARMER at kerryann.farmer@yahoo.com


 

MIDDLE SCHOOL NEWS

MS "MUST-KNOW" Upcoming Events

Below is information about upcoming MS and all-school activities and events in the coming weeks. For questions or more information about an event, please contact Erin Ryan, MS Administrative Assistant, at ext. 160 or erin.ryan@ssfs.org.

  • Sat, Oct. 14: MS Optional Weekend Trip for 7th and 8th Graders
  • Sun, Oct. 15: Admissions Fall Open House (RSVP here)
  • Thurs-Fri, Oct. 19-20: 6th Grade Chesapeake Bay Trip
  • Thurs, Oct. 26: MS Fall Sports End
  • Fri, Oct. 27: NO CLASSES, Professional Day
  • Fri, Oct. 27: MS East Ed Diversity Conference
  • Sat, Oct. 28: Junior Class Halloween Carnival, 2:00-4:00 pm, Yarnall
  • Wed-Fri, Nov. 1-3: 8th Grade NYC Trip
  • Thurs, Nov. 2: Careers in Writing Panel: "Writing in the Sciences," 7:15 pm, Yarnall Library
  • Fri-Sun, Nov. 3-5: Golf Getaway Outing (Find out more!)
  • Wed, Nov. 8: Yearbook photo make-up day (for grades 6-11)
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: PA Bow-Making Workshop for Winterfest, 8:00 am - 12:00 noon, Yarnall Lobby
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: PA Meeting, 6:15-7:15 pm, Yarnall Library
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: Open Forum with Head of School Tom Gibian, 7:15-9:00 pm
  • Fri, Nov. 10: Admissions "Discover SSFS" event, 8:15-11:00 am (RSVP here)
  • Mon, Nov. 13: MS Winter Sports Begin
  • Wed, Nov. 15: MS Parent-Teacher Conferences, 2:45-5:30 pm
  • Thurs, Nov. 16: PA Greens Workshop for Winterfest, Yarnall Lobby
  • Fri-Sat, Nov. 17-18: Upper School Play, "The Outsiders," 7:15 pm, PAC
  • Sat, Nov. 18: Winterfest, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sun, Nov. 19: Community Play auditions, 5:00-7:00 pm, PAC - Studio B
  • Mon, Nov. 20: Community Play auditions, 3:30-6:00 pm, PAC - Studio B
  • Wed-Fri, Nov. 22-24: NO SCHOOL, Thanksgiving Break
  • Mon, Nov. 27: NO CLASSES, Professional Day

The Scoop from the Sixth Grade: 10/12 Update

With the Fall Signature Trip now just a week away (next Thursday and Friday, October 19-20), we are in major trip-planning mode here in the 6th grade! Students just filled out a form where they were asked to list five students they'd be happy sharing a tent with (note: there will only be three students per tent). During C block today, Erin Rose was joined by a student panel from the 7th grade to talk to the sixth graders about the trip in general, the schedule in particular, and what to expect at both the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Sandy Point State Park. They had time to ask ALL of their questions.

Please expect an email Friday with important trip reminders. For now, simply remember:

  1. Students are asked to bring their overnight bag and sleeping bag to school the day before the trip, Wednesday, 10/18.
  2. Make sure students do NOT pack their water bottle or rain jacket in their overnight bag. These two important items should stay with students on Thursday and Friday. Some students like to carry a small bag such as a book bag or small backpack, while others prefer to tie the jacket around their waist and hold on to their water bottle. Either is fine.
  3. Medications are past due to the nurses and CBF permission forms are past due to Erin Ryan. Please get these in ASAP if you have not already done so.
  4. E-mail Liz Donelson with any questions.
  5. We are going to have so much fun, learn so much, and build new bonds as a class!


Sandy Spring Middle School Announces the Winter Play!
67 Cinderellas

Middle School drama teacher Carlo Grossman is happy to announce the title of the upcoming Middle School play. 67 Cinderellas by Stacey Lane is a funny twist on the famous Cinderella story. Auditions are November 7-9 in the music room. Rehearsals begin November 13th, and run Monday through Thursday until 4:05 pm. The performance date is Saturday, February 3, 2018 at 7:15 pm.

67 CINDERELLAS – By Stacey Lane
At the Royal Ball, Prince Dalliance is smitten by a young woman. Before he can learn anything about this mysterious party-crasher, she rushes off, leaving only her glass slipper behind. With the help of Elise, his faithful servant and best friend, the prince sets out on a quest to find his lost love by trying the shoe on every single woman in his kingdom. Finally, the prince discovers Cinderella, hidden away by her evil stepmother and stepsisters. But smart Cinderella isn't ready to marry some stranger who can only recognize her by her shoe size. Instead she uses her wits to get her father's cottage back from her evil stepmother and stepsisters and free herself from their tyranny. 67 Cinderellas debunks ridiculous traditional storybook notions of romance and what it means to be a princess.

"Presents many twists and turns to the age-old story of Cinderella... a hilariously fun-filled show." -National Youth Arts Digest


Cheer on the 'Beests in End-of-Season Home Games!
MS Volleyball

Go Beests! Our Fall sports season is wrapping up. Come cheer on the Beasts at these end of season home games:

Friday, October 13

  • Women's JV Volleyball – last Home game,
  • Women's Varsity Volleyball – last Home game vs Oakcrest. (Playoffs – Nov 2, 3, 5)
  • MS Boys Soccer (Gold) – last Home game vs WIS

Monday, October 16

  • MS Boys Soccer (Green) – last Home game vs Hebrew Academy (Playoffs – Oct 19, 23, 25)
  • MS Girls Soccer – last Home game vs Hebrew Academy (Playoffs – Oct 19, 23, 25)
  • MS Girls Volleyball – last Home Game vs WIS. (Playoffs – Oct 19, 23, 25)

Thursday, October 19

  • Men's Varsity Soccer – last Home game vs Jewish Day School (Playoffs to follow)
  • Men's JV Soccer – last Home game vs Good Counsel

Men's SoccerWomen's Varsity Soccer
See some action shots from previous games this fall from the following teams in Vidigami--and feel free to upload your own!


Middle School Fall Sports and Electives End on October 26th

Our Middle School Fall Sports and Electives season ends on Thursday, October 26th! (The kids are already starting to get excited about the Winter seaso,n which begins on Monday, November 13th, since we just completed our selections). Just a friendly reminder to parents that dismissal will be at 3:35 pm for ALL students on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday during the Weeks of October 30th and November 6th. Aftercare is always available during these gap times!


MS and US Ski Club Information

There will be 4 trips this year! January 12th and January 19th to Whitetail and January 26th and February 2nd to Liberty! Please contact Sunshine Klein if you are interested or have any questions.

Here are your options for the season:

  • Purchase a NCC for the season and pay for the bus rides to the mountains with the club. This means you can also head on up to the mountains on your own time! If you buy before November 7th, this is absolutely the cheaper option for Ski Club. Night Club Cards (NCC) are available for anyone and everyone in the community (See Friends Mart section of the Newsletter) Go to https://www.skiwhitetail.com/night-club-card to learn more
  • NCC Options

    Before 11/7, bus included

    After 11/7, bus included

    Lift$350$375
    With Advantage$375$400
    Lift and Lessons$395$420
    With Advantage

    $420$445
    Lift, Lessons, and Rentals$440$465
    With Advantage

    $465$490

  • If you are not interested in a Night Club Card, here are your ticket options:
  • OptionPrice for all 4 Trips, Bus Included
    Night LIft$353
    All MT Package (Lift, Lesson, Rental)$549
    EZ Package$521
    Learn to Ski/Board Package$473

College Night for the Visual & Performing Arts - Oct. 17
College Night for Visual and Performing Arts

This is an invitation for 8th-12th grade students and their parents/guardians to attend the College Night for the Visual & Performing Arts in PAC Studio B on Wednesday, October 17th at 6:30 pm. Come learn about The George Washington University's Corcoran School of the Arts & Design, Temple University's Tyler School for the Arts, and Towson University. This event is a wonderful opportunity to get insight to the vast possibilities study of the arts offers at the collegiate level. In addition to learning about the specifics of these highly-valued art institutions and their course offerings, you will get a sense of occupational possibilities beyond college. You will also receive insight about art supplements, portfolios and other art admissions information. The evening concludes with a mini fair session where you will be able to walk from table to table to ask your questions and get your answers. Hope to see you there! Download flyer here.


 

UPPER SCHOOL NEWS

US "MUST-KNOW" Upcoming Events

Below is information about upcoming Upper School and all-school activities and events. For questions or more information about an event, please contact Meredith Shankle, US Administrative Assistant, at ext. 109 or meredith.shankle@ssfs.org.

  • Fri, Oct. 13 12th Grade Fundraiser - Movie in Clifton, 8:00 pm (more info below)
  • Sun, Oct. 15: Admissions Open House, 1:00-3:30 pm (RSVP here)
  • Tues, Oct. 17: US College Night for the Arts, 6:30-8:30 pm, PAC - Studio B
  • Fri, Oct. 27: NO CLASSES, Professional Day
  • Sat, Oct. 28: ACT Test Date
  • Sat, Oct. 28: Junior Class Halloween Carnival, 2:00-4:00 pm, Yarnall
  • Tues, Oct. 31: Upper School Literary-Cinematic Halloween Costume Contest, sponsored by the Writing Center (during the school day)
  • Thurs, Nov. 2: US Coffee & Conversation, 8:15 -9:15 am, Westview Dining Hall
  • Thurs, Nov. 2: Careers in Writing Panel: "Writing in the Sciences," 7:15 pm, Yarnall Library
  • Fri, Nov, 3: US Fall Sports End
  • Fri-Sun, Nov. 3-5: Golf Getaway Outing (Find out more!)
  • Sat, Nov. 4: SAT Test Date
  • Mon, Nov. 6: US Winter Sports Begin
  • Wed, Nov. 8: Yearbook photo make-up day (for grades 6-11)
  • Wed, Nov. 8: 11th Grade Symposium, 6:30-9:00 pm. Effective Communication about Substance Use and other Risky Behaviors: Build networks and collaborate in round table discussions with other students and their parents with a focus on how to communicate about risky behaviors.
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: PA Bow-Making Workshop for Winterfest, 8:00 am - 12:00 noon, Yarnall Lobby
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: PA Meeting, 6:15-7:15 pm, Yarnall Library
  • Thurs, Nov. 9: Open Forum with Head of School Tom Gibian, 7:15-9:00 pm
  • Fri, Nov. 10: Admissions "Discover SSFS" event, 8:15-11:00 am (RSVP here)
  • Fri, Nov. 10: 9th Grade Play, 7:15 pm, PAC
  • Sat-Sun, Nov. 11-12: Upper School Play Tech-In (10 am - 4 pm Sat, 1-4 pm Sun)
  • Wed, Nov. 15: US Parent-Teacher Conferences, 2:45-5:00 pm
  • Thurs, Nov. 16: PA Greens Workshop for Winterfest, Yarnall Lobby
  • Fri-Sat, Nov. 17-18: Upper School Play, "The Outsiders," 7:15 pm, PAC
  • Sat, Nov. 18: Winterfest, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • Sun, Nov. 19: Community Play auditions, 5:00-7:00 pm, PAC - Studio B
  • Mon, Nov. 20: Community Play auditions, 3:30-6:00 pm, PAC - Studio B
  • Tues, Nov. 21: Dorm closes for Thanksgiving break, 7:00 pm
  • Wed-Fri, Nov. 22-24: NO SCHOOL, Thanksgiving Break
  • Mon, Nov. 27: NO CLASSES, Professional Day (Dorm opens at 12:00 noon)

Student Interns Share Their Experiences

In an Upper School assembly on Thursday, October 5, nine Upper School students presented their internship experiences to the student body. After the students performed at least 60 hours of work in a career-related environment and wrote a personal essay to reflect on the process and outcomes, this public-speaking opportunity was the last step toward culminating their internship experience and having their internship recognized on their academic transcript. Interns told about experiences as varied as organizing a climate-science conference, caring for lab rats, and educating aquarium visitors. They also participated in a panel-style discussion to answer Frequently Asked Questions as well as spontaneous (and sometimes oddball) questions from the audience. All interns benefited from this opportunity to reflect on their experience thus far and find a way to relay these findings to a large audience. Congratulations to the following interns!

  • Oliver Hamburger: Technology support with SSFS Technology Faculty
  • Bella Vignola: Digital media and public relations with NASA
  • Justis Dixon: Nonprofit development & alumni engagement with SSFS Development Department
  • Kevin (Tinjun) Ye: Behavioral science research with Johns Hopkins University
  • Siraj Faruqee: Museum studies and marine science with National Aquarium, Baltimore
  • Jeremy Mednik: Applied physics with Johns Hopkins University
  • Samaa Eldadah: Environmental education and community engagement with NOAA
  • Albert (Haotian) Wang: Medical laboratory science with Pekin Union Medical College, China
  • Ian Stukes: Pharmaceutical development with NIST

Fri, Oct 13: 12th Grade Fundraiser

The 12th grade is putting on a fundraiser on Friday the 13th at 8:00 pm in Clifton. They will be showing 10 Cloverfield Lane, which lasts approximately 2 hours, for free. The grade will be charging money for snacks and drinks, including brownies, cookies, pizza, popcorn, and even snowcones. We hope that everyone can make it out and support the senior class.


Scientists and Journalists Discuss Writing in the Sciences, Nov. 2
Writing Center Logo

How can scientists most effectively communicate their work to a larger audience? What's behind the recent debate over the validity of scientific research? How does the message get lost between scientists and the public? What's it like to spend your career writing about science?

This year's "Careers in Writing" event is a panel discussion entitled "Writing in the Sciences." We'll host experts in science writing to discuss their careers and emphasize the importance of clear communication to the field of science.

Nell Greenfieldboyce is a science and technology correspondent with National Public Radio who has reported about topics as varied as pet cloning, gene therapy, ballistics, and federal regulation of new technology. Dave Goodrich is a venerated climate scientist retired from NOAA and the United Nations. He is also the author of A Hole in the Wind: A Climate Scientist's Bicycle Journey Across the United States. Steven Gimbel is the chair of the Philosophy Department at Gettysburg College and the author of numerous books about the intersection between science and philosophy. They'll all speak with Science department faculty member Sharon Wall in a panel-style discussion with plenty of time for audience questions.

The event is part of an annual speaker series, sponsored by the SSFS Writing Center, which spotlights writing-related careers for students, parents, and faculty/staff. All community members are invited to join us at 7:15 pm on Thursday, November 2, in Yarnall Library. Refreshments will be available, and Goodrich will be selling and signing copies of his book. Students should ask their science teachers about earning extra credit for attending. To reserve your spot, please contact Writing Center Director Ariel Voorhees: ariel.voorhees@ssfs.org.


Cheer on the 'Beests in End-of-Season Home Games!
MS Volleyball

Go Beests! Our Fall sports season is wrapping up. Come cheer on the Beasts at these end of season home games:

Friday, October 13

  • Women's JV Volleyball – last Home game,
  • Women's Varsity Volleyball – last Home game vs Oakcrest. (Playoffs – Nov 2, 3, 5)
  • MS Boys Soccer (Gold) – last Home game vs WIS

Monday, October 16

  • MS Boys Soccer (Green) – last Home game vs Hebrew Academy (Playoffs – Oct 19, 23, 25)
  • MS Girls Soccer – last Home game vs Hebrew Academy (Playoffs – Oct 19, 23, 25)
  • MS Girls Volleyball – last Home Game vs WIS. (Playoffs – Oct 19, 23, 25)

Thursday, October 19

  • Men's Varsity Soccer – last Home game vs Jewish Day School (Playoffs to follow)
  • Men's JV Soccer – last Home game vs Good Counsel

Men's SoccerWomen's Varsity Soccer
See some action shots from previous games this fall from the following teams in Vidigami--and feel free to upload your own!


Fifth Annual Halloween Costume Contest
US Halloween Costume Content

Looking for a great Halloween costume? Find it in your favorite book! The Writing Center announces its Fifth Annual Halloween Costume Contest, open to all Upper School students, faculty, and staff! Dress in a literary or cinematic-themed costume on Tuesday, October 31; judging will take place on the Westview patio during lunch. The Writing Tutors will grant the prize of free movie tickets to the best individual and group costume, but no contestant will walk away empty-handed. So dust off your favorite books and start reading—you may just find your best costume yet!


Apprenticeship Leads to a Real Opportunity

MCDOT winning mosaic
Wes L., class of 2018, spent his summer participating in the Pour Your ART Out Apprenticeship at Arts on the Block. This is a flagship program that exposes teens to the intersection of art, design, and business by engaging them in managing real-world art projects for paying clients. Montgomery County Department of Transportation Transit Services (MCDOT) commissioned a work to promote a new express bus that will service Rockville Pike. Of the viable designs presented, Wes' mosaic was chosen by MCDOT. Please join me in congratulating Wes! And keep your eyes peeled for his design around Rockville, MD.


Invitation to Watch Acting Students Perform Monologues

WHEN: Tuesday 10/17, 8:55-10:05 am. (US G Block)
WHERE: PAC theater
WHAT: I have been really impressed with the work that the acting students have been doing on their monologues in acting class! On Tuesday, 10/17, the acting students will give the final presentations of their monologues. Each student in the class will perform two monologues. The assignment is to perform two contrasting monologues because that is what is often asked for by college and professional theater auditions. Monologues contain adult content. Appropriate for 6th grade and up.
Thanks for your support of our students!


MS and US Ski Club Information

There will be 4 trips this year! January 12th and January 19th to Whitetail and January 26th and February 2nd to Liberty! Please contact Sunshine Klein if you are interested or have any questions.

Here are your options for the season:

  • Purchase a NCC for the season and pay for the bus rides to the mountains with the club. This means you can also head on up to the mountains on your own time! If you buy before November 7th, this is absolutely the cheaper option for Ski Club. Night Club Cards (NCC) are available for anyone and everyone in the community (See Friends Mart section of the Newsletter) Go to https://www.skiwhitetail.com/night-club-card to learn more
  • NCC Options

    Before 11/7, bus included

    After 11/7, bus included

    Lift$350$375
    With Advantage$375$400
    Lift and Lessons$395$420
    With Advantage

    $420$445
    Lift, Lessons, and Rentals$440$465
    With Advantage

    $465$490

  • If you are not interested in a Night Club Card, here are your ticket options:
  • OptionPrice for all 4 Trips, Bus Included
    Night LIft$353
    All MT Package (Lift, Lesson, Rental)$549
    EZ Package$521
    Learn to Ski/Board Package$473

Upper School Play: "The Outsiders" - Save the Date!
The Outsiders - US Play Poster

What: Upper School student production of The Outsiders, based on the book by S. E. Hinton and adapted for the stage by Christopher Sergel
When: November 17, 18 @ 7:15 pm
Where: Sandy Spring Friends School Performing Arts Center
Cost: Admission is free for students and there is a $10 suggested donation for adults (cash only please).
Who: The play has some stage violence and deals with adult topics. Suitable for students grades 6 and up.

As timely as it was when the book was first published in 1967, The Outsiders is a dramatic coming of age story about a teen gang growing up in rural Oklahoma. The poor Greasers are constantly at odds with the Socials, a rival group. When Greasers Ponyboy and Johnny get into a brawl that ends with deadly consequences, they are forced into hiding. Soon Ponyboy and Johnny, along with their other Greaser friends, must contend with the consequences of their violent lives. While some try to achieve redemption, others meet tragic ends. Author S. E. Hinton was only 15 years old when she began writing this story inspired by her own high school, and thus the story is very compelling for young teens. The story was re-imagined in a well-loved Francis Ford Coppola film in 1983. You will be blown away by this powerful story in Sandy Spring Friends School's Upper School production. The play does have some stage violence and deals with adult topics. For reference, the film was rated PG. Admission is free for students and there is a $10 suggested donation for adults. No advance ticket sales. Open Seating. Feel free to email the director, Julie Borsetti, with any questions.


College Night for the Visual & Performing Arts - Oct. 17
College Night for Visual and Performing Arts

This is an invitation for 8th-12th grade students and their parents/guardians to attend the College Night for the Visual & Performing Arts in PAC Studio B on Wednesday, October 17th at 6:30 pm. Come learn about The George Washington University's Corcoran School of the Arts & Design, Temple University's Tyler School for the Arts, and Towson University. This event is a wonderful opportunity to get insight to the vast possibilities study of the arts offers at the collegiate level. In addition to learning about the specifics of these highly-valued art institutions and their course offerings, you will get a sense of occupational possibilities beyond college. You will also receive insight about art supplements, portfolios and other art admissions information. The evening concludes with a mini fair session where you will be able to walk from table to table to ask your questions and get your answers. Hope to see you there! Download flyer here.


Learning Resource Collaborative Flex Program: Sign Up Now!

The Learning Resource Collaborative (comprised of the SSFS Learning Specialists) is proud to announce the start of the FLEX program! Mission: The Flex Program at Sandy Spring Friends School is an after-school student support program that aims to elevate the efficacy of learners via small group homework help, executive function support, organization and time management strategies, and more.

Sessions for Upper School students will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:45 pm – 5:45 pm (take the late bus home) or 6:45 pm – 8:45 pm (perfect for our student athletes). Dinner is included (but not required).

First quarter sessions begin Tuesday, September 5th. Register now by clicking here.
Fees are as follows: Trimester 1 $725; Trimester 2 $995; Trimester 3 $995


 

ATHLETIC EVENTS THIS WEEK

4:00 PM
St. Anselm's Abbey School
 
Monday - October 16, 2017
4:00 PM
Beach Field
 
4:30 PM
McLean School of Maryland
 
Wednesday - October 18, 2017
3:45 PM
St. Anselm's Abbey School
 
Saturday - October 21, 2017
12:30 PM
Georgetown Prep School
 
 

FRIENDS MART

Join the PA Community Connections site to see other offerings from the SSFS community. 

Night Club Cards for Whitetail, Liberty, and Roundtop Skiing

Night Club Cards are back! Ski Whitetail, Liberty, and Roundtop any evening from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm (3:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Sundays) starting on January 2nd with your very own Night Club Card!

More detailed directions for online purchasing available here. For more information contact Sunshine Klein by email at Sunshine.Klein@ssfs.org


Friends General Conference 2017 Retreat for Friends of Color

Friday, November 3rd to Sunday, November 5th, FGC's Ministry on Racism Program is sponsoring an opportunity for Friends of Color and their families to come together to build multigenerational community through:

  • Mutual support and sharing
  • Worship & Exploring our Faith
  • Sharing ways to heal ourselves in these turbulent times
  • Spend time tightening the bonds among us

Find out more about the conference and register here.


Join the PA Community Connections Online Bulletin Board

Do you ever wish you had a way to "connect" to the SSFS community of families about topics not part of the traditional school day or school related events? Maybe you've wondered if any of those nice high school students babysit, or if any parents know of a good violin teacher. Maybe you are looking for a plumber, a travel agent, or someone to work out with? Want to start a hiking group, a meditation group, or need help moving furniture??

Online communities abound these days, so the SSFS PA has created one (via Shutterfly) for our wonderful community of families. This is an opt-in choice open to current and alumni families for all divisions, home stay and boarding parents. The site is moderated by parent volunteers to ensure we don't misuse the tool for problems an online community can't address, and don't duplicate or replace what is official school business that belongs on other communication sites.

We hope this tool will be an additional way to support connections across this diverse community of families who share the choice of SSFS for their children. Please fill out this quick online form to opt-in. Questions? Please contact Nikol Jackson or Kathleen Landers.


 
 
 
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Questions or suggestions about the eNewsletter? Please contact Margaret Rosser, margaret.rosser@ssfs.org or 301-774-7455 x117.

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