Sandy Spring Friends School, a well-regarded Quaker preparatory institution in Montgomery County, Maryland, has announced its closure following the 2024-25 school year. The decision, made by the Board of Trustees, comes after an extensive review of the school’s financial position, enrollment trends, and fundraising efforts.
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1961, Sandy Spring Friends School (SSFS) has served students from Preschool (age 3) through Grade 12, offering a rigorous academic curriculum rooted in Quaker principles. The school sits on a 140-acre campus, providing students with a unique learning environment that fosters simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship.
Financial Challenges Lead to Closure
Despite efforts to stabilize its financial foundation, SSFS faced untenable financial difficulties that made continued operations impossible. The Board of Trustees stated, “Regrettably, despite an immense effort to shore up the school’s financial foundation, we simply do not have the financial wherewithal to meet our obligations next year.”
Impact on Students and Staff
The Adventure Park Remains Open
One silver lining is that The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring, which operates independently on the school’s campus, will continue to function as usual. Since its establishment in 2010, the park has been a separate entity in terms of ownership and management, ensuring that its operations remain unaffected by the school’s closure.
Looking Ahead
While Sandy Spring Friends School will no longer serve students after 2025, its legacy will live on through its alumni, faculty, and the values it instilled in generations of learners. The Board of Trustees has assured families that they will receive ongoing support during this transition, ensuring that students continue to thrive in new educational environments.
