Message from the OIEJB: May-June 2026

By Terrell Davis, Director of the Office of Inclusion, Equity, Justice, and Belonging

April offered many opportunities across Sandy Spring Friends School for reflection, learning, and connection as members of our community observed important cultural and religious traditions and continued participating in programming that supports belonging across divisions.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Throughout May, SSFS recognized Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders whose experiences have shaped our communities and country.

As part of the Middle School monthly read-aloud program, students gathered to engage with stories highlighting the experiences, resilience, and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander individuals and communities. Through discussion and reflection, students explored themes of identity, perseverance, representation, and belonging while deepening their understanding of the diverse cultures represented within the AAPI community.

Jewish American Heritage Month

May also marked Jewish American Heritage Month, providing an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the rich history, traditions, and contributions of Jewish Americans.

Middle School students participated in a read-aloud experience that highlighted Jewish voices and experiences, encouraging thoughtful dialogue about identity, community, and the ways individuals and groups contribute to a more just and inclusive society. These shared learning experiences helped students build greater cultural understanding while honoring the diversity of experiences within the Jewish community.

Throughout May, Upper School students created a display in recognition of both Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month. The exhibit highlights the contributions of artists, writers, activists, and leaders from AAPI and Jewish communities while exploring shared themes of identity, resilience, migration, culture, family, and belonging. Featuring artwork, inspirational quotations, and opportunities for reflection, the display invites community members to engage with the many stories that shape our collective understanding of humanity and connection.

Religious Observances

Several important religious observances took place during May and June.

Many members of the SSFS community also observed Shavuot, a Jewish holiday commemorating the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. The holiday is traditionally celebrated through learning, prayer, and gathering with family and community.

In May, some members of our community observed Eid al-Adha, one of the most significant holidays in Islam. Eid al-Adha commemorates the values of faith, sacrifice, generosity, and service to others and is often celebrated through prayer, charitable giving, and gatherings with family and friends.

Recognizing these observances helps us honor the diverse faith traditions represented within our community and reinforces our commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all.

Pride Month

During June, SSFS recognized Pride Month, a time to celebrate the history, contributions, resilience, and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.

Pride Month serves as an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing work of creating communities where all people can live authentically and be treated with dignity and respect. Across our school community, we continue striving to foster environments where every student, family member, and employee feels seen, valued, and supported. Pride Month reminds us that belonging is strengthened when we honor the unique identities and experiences that each person brings to our shared community.

Looking Ahead

As we conclude another school year, the Office of Institutional Equity, Justice & Belonging extends gratitude to the many students, families, faculty, and staff who participated in heritage month celebrations, affinity spaces, read-alouds, learning opportunities, and community conversations throughout the year. Together, these experiences help strengthen our shared commitment to equity, justice, belonging, and the Quaker values that guide our community.