SSFS Family Ambassadors

Children's Grades: 5th & 8th

"We've lived in the Olney area for 15 years and have long hoped our girls would one day attend SSFS. As a former teacher and independent school administrator, I recognize a world-class program and ethos when I see one. Despite recent challenges, we are fully committed to the school and confident it will have a profound and positive impact on our daughters' lives."

Child's Grade: 11th

"Sandy Spring Friends has grown over the years in all the best ways. My son loves all his teachers and has the opportunity for leadership, creativity, joyful learning, and community building in an environment that truly celebrates diversity and self-expression. He has expanded his interests into the sciences with the rich, expansive academic experience and is thriving on sports teams, music programs, outdoor education, service learning, club leadership, and so much more."

Children's Grades: 10th & 11th

"Our family has been part of the SSFS community for 14 years, and from the moment you drive onto campus, you can feel the warmth and connection that define this place. What drew us in—and has kept us here—is the genuine sense of community and the deep roots that bind everyone together. At Sandy Spring Friends, educators truly get to know your child and your family. It’s a relational school, and that makes all the difference. There’s a deep respect for each student, even the youngest learners, and that respect shapes a learning environment where children feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow."

Child's Grade: 12th

"I can remember the first day I came to the SSFS campus for a tour, and I immediately got good vibes—I instantly felt comfortable and loved the campus. When our older daughter chose SSFS, I was tremendously excited to be part of this community, and that excitement remains today with our younger daughter. The teachers are wonderful; even during the challenges of COVID, I could always tell that they were still connected to the kids in important ways. I’d recommend SSFS enthusiastically and without reservation!"

Child's Grade: 8th

"Choosing SSFS for our son was one of the best decisions we have made. From the moment we stepped onto the beautiful, peaceful campus, we felt a sense of belonging.  At SSFS, the Quaker values of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship (S.P.I.C.E.S.) are more than guiding principles; they are lived experiences that shape the way students learn, connect, and grow. Not only is our son receiving a strong education, but he is also building friendships rooted in kindness. What has meant the most to us is how the school meets our son exactly where he is. He is encouraged to be fully himself and is supported in ways that honor his individual strengths and needs, so that he grows into the person he is meant to be. As a parent, there is nothing more reassuring than knowing your child is seen, valued, and truly known."

Child's Grade: 10th

"As an alumnus, I can confidently say that SSFS does more than just help kids find their voice—it empowers them to build it. Through a culture of inclusion, students are supported in discovering who they are. The education I received here went far beyond academics; it prepared me to navigate adult life while staying true to myself. That’s exactly why we chose this school for our son. I’ve been truly amazed by how the school has continued to grow in its mission—supporting a wide range of learners and helping each one thrive. The impact on our son has been profound, guiding him toward the path that’s right for him. Equally impressive is the strength of the school community."

Children's Grades: 1st & 5th

"SSFS's beautiful campus spoke to me. It was a simple but powerful feeling! We continue to choose SSFS year after year because of the nurturing, intelligent, dedicated, creative, kind, and energetic faculty and staff who see each child and care about who they are! It’s the sophisticated arts program that complements the academics. It’s the normalization of diversity, providing a safe community where everyone can experience due regard and belonging. It’s the alumni, young and old, who continue on with character and purpose. It really is so many things, but most of all, it’s because my children know real joy in this very special community."

Child's Grade: 11th

"As both an alumna and a parent, I can attest to the supportive community and solid education that SSFS provides. My experience as a student was transformative, and it is having the same impact on my son, 30 years later. We chose SSFS because of the values lived daily by the students, faculty, and staff; because it nurtures the individual through engagement in a caring community; and for the strong academic and arts programs. Sandy Spring Friends is providing our son with the skills, qualities, and confidence to be a positive force and a changemaker in this increasingly divisive world."

Children's Grades: 6th & 8th

"We chose SSFS because we wanted a school that saw them as individuals, cultivated a love of learning, and taught them how to be good people."

Child's Grade: Preschool

"SSFS embodies everything we envisioned for our son’s childhood. From the start, we were drawn to the nurturing environment and the intentionally smaller class sizes that allow each child to be truly seen, known, and supported. What stood out most was the community— a place where differences are embraced, every voice matters, and children are recognized and celebrated for who they are. A major draw for our family was the SHINE program, which places a beautiful emphasis on social-emotional learning. This isn’t just a school—it’s a place where childhood is honored, curiosity is encouraged, and the wonder of learning comes alive every day."

Child's Grade: 7th

"From the moment I set foot on campus for a tour, I knew this was the school for our son—the campus allows students to relax in nature daily. The teachers and staff are second to none—caring, supportive, communicative, and invested in the students' academic and social-emotional well-being. The academic program is rigorous, but supports the children as whole people with individual strengths and weaknesses. The community makes us feel connected; our son made great friends in his first year. It's amazing to see your child, who transitioned into 6th grade from a different school, excited to go to school every morning (a first). The Quaker education he is receiving is helping him become a creative, caring, empathetic person—he (surprisingly) enjoys weekly Meeting for Worship and sitting in silence with his community."

Child's Grade: 2nd

"I grew up overseas as a military child, where daily life revolved around school and its activities—it was the heart of our family life. My wife, an alumna of SSFS, still stays close with her best friend from Upper School, a bond that speaks volumes about the lasting relationships formed here. Now, our son is experiencing that same connection. He’s found more than just friends—he’s built meaningful relationships with teachers and staff who feel like family. They truly see him for who he is and encourage him to thrive as his authentic self. The campus and its people feel like home—safe, supportive, and welcoming."

Children's Grades: 2nd & 4th

"SSFS offers much more than academics. From the start, we were drawn to the school’s Quaker values, its welcoming community, and the nurturing environment that supports each child as a whole person. Our children are not only learning—they are thriving. They are encouraged to ask questions, express themselves, and grow with confidence, kindness, and purpose. Being part of this community has deepened our sense of connection, given our children a joyful education, and surrounded us with supportive friendships that extend far beyond the classroom. We’re so grateful to be part of a school that reflects our values and nurtures our whole family."