Families, students, and staff at Sandy Spring Friends School in Montgomery County, Maryland, are facing an emotional announcement. The well-known Quaker prep school will officially shut down after the 2024-2025 academic year.
The news came on Monday through a heartfelt letter from school leaders Vanessa Stiffler-Claus, Eli Miles, and Barbara Gibian, who shared that the Board of Trustees made the tough decision after a deep review of the school’s finances, enrollment numbers, and fundraising efforts.
Why Sandy Spring Friends School Is Closing
The school’s leadership explained that the decision to close wasn’t taken lightly. After carefully studying the school’s financial situation, they found that the school could no longer afford to continue operating.
“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,” the letter stated.
In simpler terms, even after trying everything to raise money and keep things running, the school cannot cover its costs for the next academic year.
About Sandy Spring Friends School
Founded in 1961, Sandy Spring Friends School (SSFS) has been a private, co-ed Quaker school located on a beautiful 140-acre campus in Montgomery County. The school serves students from preschool (age 3) through 12th grade.
According to the school’s website, SSFS is known for its strong academic programs, character education based on Quaker values, and its passionate and skilled teachers. It prides itself on helping students grow not only academically, but also personally and spiritually, encouraging them to become thoughtful, caring citizens.
What Will Happen Next for Students and Staff?
For families with children currently enrolled at SSFS, the school has promised to share more information soon. This will include details about tuition refunds, 2025-2026 deposits, and help transferring to other schools.
Teachers and staff will also receive guidance on compensation, benefits, and career transition support to help them find new opportunities after the school closes.
Remembering a Legacy of Learning
Over its more than 60-year history, Sandy Spring Friends School has built a strong community of students, alumni, faculty, and families. The school’s letter to the community thanked everyone for their dedication, love, and support.
“Our alumni have made lasting impacts across society, and our faculty and staff have developed students academically and spiritually in lasting ways,” the school wrote.
The closing of Sandy Spring Friends School marks the end of a meaningful chapter in Montgomery County’s education community. After more than six decades of nurturing young minds with Quaker values and academic excellence, the school must close its doors due to financial challenges. As families and staff prepare for this transition, the memories, friendships, and lessons from SSFS will remain an important part of their lives.
