Since the earliest days of compulsory education, schools have served a role in teaching young people the inner workings of a democratic society and the ways to use their voices individually and collectively for social and political change. Civic engagement is at the heart of Sandy Spring Friends School's motto, “Let Your Lives Speak.” Every day gives us an opportunity to raise awareness of issues of human and civil rights, to shine a probing light on social inequities, and to take actions for justice within our spheres of influence.

On Saturday, November 14, nine SSFS Upper School students attended the AIMS Baltimore Student Diversity Leadership Conference.

This year's conference theme was “Black _____ Matter(s).”

As we reflect on the things we are thankful for this holiday season, one thing rises to the top of our list—our amazing and diverse community. On behalf of the entire SSFS community, THANK YOU to everyone who made a gift to SSFS on Giving Tuesday and throughout the year.

Congratulations to Upper School English teacher Scott Carneal for taking home the 2020 Block Island Film Festival Screenwriting Award for his original screenplay, Young Widow Coffin!

Congratulations to SSFS Kindergarten teacher and parent Mary Anne Peacock, who married John Nichols in a small courthouse ceremony on October 2!

On Monday, October 19, SSFS community members participated in a Community Day like no other, with the theme “Apart Together.”

For many years, the Junior Class has spearheaded an all-school charitable project, partnering with SOME (So Others Might Eat), to collect items for festively-wrapped "shoebox gifts." This year, the SSFS community came together to donate nearly 50 holiday shoeboxes!