At SSFS we seek to educate children in all areas of their lives so that they may become effective citizens of the world. As such, the thematic content of our new syllabus is organized around addressing the following query: how do we educate the whole child in our increasingly connected, global community?

With this guiding principle in mind, we focused the program on eight content areas: Social Justice, Culture, Mindfulness, Financial Literacy, Sexual Health/Consent, Emotional Intelligence, Digital Citizenship, and Diversity.

Throughout the academic year, every two weeks our boarders will participate in an interactive presentation spanning a variety of current and relevant topics relating to our eight areas of study. Students also have the opportunity to reflect and journal on the subject matter via our new subscription to Thrively, a multifaceted, convertible learning platform.

The Dorm Wellness Program kicked off in October with a 30-day challenge to get students to become more active, which includes regular workouts, and to start eating healthier.  Phase 1 was a big success, in part, because the kids thrived and showed great determination and resilience.

As a community filled with diverse cultures and ethnicity, Boarding Life at Sandy Spring Friends School wants every student and staff to feel valued, heard, and supported. Have you seen our video that features some of our current international boarding students talking about their personal experiences with diversity at SSFS?

Hello! My name is John Fahey.  I became the Assistant Director of the Boarding Program at Sandy Spring Friends School (SSFS) in 2018 after working at a boarding school in the Boston area for 20 years. And, because we're always working to improve the Boarding program, I am excited to have the opportunity to share my knowledge and ideas to offer a more meaningful experience to all our boarding students.

Alison Cheetham, Activities Coordinator

As you finish your formal education and begin your first teaching position, I reflect on my own career in education and am compelled to offer some unsolicited advice. You come from a family that has been blessed with educational opportunities. You know that I attended public schools, though I have pursued my teaching career in independent (private) schools.  Your mother attended a private school and has devoted a significant portion of her professional life to public schools. Education, as both students and teachers, pervades our family weltanschauung. You and your sister grew up steeped in endless dinner conversations about education, teaching, local and national policy, celebrating academic achievement, wrestling with inclusiveness and the challenges of underachievement in and by schools. You matured in a family environment that has, in addition to your formal education, prepared you for the challenges of teaching.  Here, however, are some distilled thoughts from Dad about good teaching.  

Knowing how to communicate well is one of the key factors in a successful life. Good communication strengthens relationships and career opportunities, and builds confidence. But when it comes to learning a foreign language, it's no easy task.

For many families, the decision between enrolling a child in a public school or a private school is one filled with uncertainties. The following questions are frequently asked by parents and students when considering this important milestone.  Read on to find the answers that will help you make the right decision.

Sandy Spring Friends School offers a meaningful, fulfilling, and well-rounded experience to its students through programming in academics, athletics and artistic pathways. The elements of mentoring and teaching allow for a strong and fresh way of learning in a residential setting. Learn more about our programs:  http://www.ssfs.org/admission/boarding.