"SSFS taught me how to search for—and be in—community, and these are important skills for life. The culture of SSFS—its traditions and opportunities—helped me learn the value of unity and togetherness at a very young age. I learned a lot about connecting with people, which has helped me build relationships and foster spaces of belonging in college." 

"In the first meeting we had with Mary Anne and Erin [Lower School teachers], after just a few days of our daughter being in class, they knew so much about her learning style. And in the very first conference, it was clear she felt so comfortable in their class and they were in tune with her."

"There’s more to discover in the world than the classes you take in high school. I appreciate SSFS encouraging the mindset that if you're really passionate about something, you should go after it, and providing me with the opportunity. I don’t know if I’d be as involved in college if I hadn’t done the Senior Passion Project at SSFS."

"I really found myself here. Sandy Spring Friends School let me learn to be myself, to speak up for what I need, and to share my concerns. And I’ve learned critical thinking here. I don’t think you could have this kind of experience anywhere else."

"Because my background is in human rights, I feel an obligation to encourage students to think about the world at a macro and a micro level—to think about their part in the world. I’m not the only teacher who thinks this way; as a school, we really strive to make sure our students leave not just thinking about college and getting a job, but how they can make change."

"SSFS students want to live in community, have a sense of purpose, and find ways to contribute to the world. They care about the success of others as much as their own. These are all distinguishing qualities admission officers look for when selecting applicants from a sea of strong grades and test scores."

"The most important skill I learned at Sandy Spring Friends is something most people either never learn or are encouraged to learn only when they become overwhelmed in their working life: time management. At SSFS, I gained an understanding of how to organize not only my schoolwork but my day-to-day life.  I still employ these techniques today."

"When I arrived at Sandy Spring Friends, I wasn’t confident about who I was, but the boarding program pushed me to step out of my comfort zone, try new activities, and integrate into the domestic student population. It broadened my horizons and perspective. Those four years were some of the best of my life. Looking back, all my confidence comes from being in that environment—from being appreciated and valued. SSFS helped me to actualize my potential."

"I love interacting with and supporting the students…of all my different roles, this is paramount. What I teach in BC Calc is not necessarily what’s going to be remembered—but how I make my students feel is going to carry with them long after they leave. This place is my family. When I’m here, I’m home."