Ninth Grade Program
At Sandy Spring Friends School, we’re committed to creating spaces of belonging, and we know that the start of high school is a critically important time for each student to experience this deep sense of comfort and community. That’s why we offer a rich transitional experience for ninth-grade students, linking the Middle School years with the more intensive demands of the Upper School and grounding each student with a sense of self and a connection to their peers and larger community.
Our ninth- grade program is sensitive to the particular intellectual, social, and emotional needs of 13 to 14-year-olds. We provide the supports and develop the skills to equip them to take full advantage of all the Upper School has to offer. In the process, we empower them to Let Their Lives Speak as they enter late adolescence, and launch them, fully prepared and confident, to the next phase of their lives.
Academic Framework
Our academic framework is designed for seamless integration across key subject areas—English, history, science, and mathematics. This integration supports a comprehensive understanding and application of knowledge, encouraging students to draw connections across disciplines.
To complement our rigorous core curriculum, we offer:
- Global language study in French or Spanish
- Physical Education to support health and well-being
- Enrichment seminars touching upon critical topics such as Quakerism, interpersonal skills, leadership, diversity appreciation, nutrition, and substance awareness.
Experiential Learning
Our Ninth Grade Program is rich in experiential learning opportunities that extend learning beyond the traditional classroom:
A bonding camping trip with all 9th grade students.
Field trips that offer real-world learning experiences.
Team-building exercises to cultivate collaboration and leadership skills.
