Thanks to “substantial and meaningful” fundraising” by the Coalition of Friends of the Sandy Spring Friends School and other supporters, school trustees have changed their mind. The school will remain open until at least June of 2028.
“We are deeply heartened by the generous and passionate responses from across the SSFS community, which reflect the deep love and care for the school, its Quaker value and mission, and the lasting impact the school has had for many. We will work hard to regain our community’s trust.”
However, a message on the school’s website noted, “More work will be needed to ensure the long term financial stability of the school.”
Supporters raised $15 million.
“We are thrilled that the rapid fundraising efforts and true dedication to the School and community will enable our treasured School to remain a safe place for students to learn, grow, and let their lives speak,” wrote Heather Jackson, Coalition co-founder and ‘00 alumna in a news release. “We are powerful when we move together with clarity and purpose.”
“When the story is told about how this was accomplished, it will be about the power of community, relationship, and connection,” said Jackson.
Officials had announced on April 14 that the school on Norbeck Road would close at the end of this school year.
Coalition Co-Founder Nick Shank, ‘00 alumnus, added, “The heroes of this story are all of us. We came together and solved a problem in Quaker love and light.”
The school is creating a task force, which will meet for the first time on April 28.
A fundraising auction will be held May 3 at the Ten Oaks Ballroom in Clarksville. It will feature live and silent auctions, dinner and dancing.
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