March 6, 2025

Big news, big bids, and big school spirit! The online auction is in full swing and bids are a-flying! Don’t miss out on incredible items and one-of-a-kind experiences, all while supporting our school community (and some amazing local businesses). Get in on the action HERE!

Meanwhile, campus has been buzzing with energy this week: faculty brought their A-game for underground spirit week ahead of next week's student celebrations;  our Middle School artists found inspiration at Bald Head Island; Division A Science Olympians #slayed last Saturday's regional competition and Division B is up this weekend; and we're thrilled to add a new role to our school community next year—a full-time Learning Specialist—while we also prepare to say goodbye to three other faculty members. Catch up on updates and announcement below!

Spirit Week

Transitions and change. So hard for all of us, but for children, sadness is so often mixed with confusion. Before my 11 years at Sandy Spring Friends, I had taught at 8 schools in 18 years across 4 different countries. Each of my moves was family-centered and to me were “natural” transitions. It wasn’t until years later, through social media outreach, that several former students let me know the immense impact I had on their lives . . .

So when teachers move on from a community, it is difficult for the students. But it is equally as difficult for the teachers who have invested so much emotional capital. It is impossible not to care for the children who we spend as much time with each week as our own family and friends. Read more >>>

Following the success of February's "Palentine's Day Social," we're excited to introducing a new monthly initiative to encourage parent connection and community building. We hope you'll join us TOMORROW, March 7th, for our First Fridays Coffee in Longleaf Cottage from 8-9AM.

And don't forget that Chelsea and Sarah will be concluding their term as PA Co-Clerks at the end of the year. As a Quaker school, we will follow a community process to find consensus on our next leaders. If you're interested in serving or in being part of the selection committee, you can submit a nomination (for yourself or others) at the link below.

Bids are flying, and the competition is fierce! That weekend glamping getaway? Dozens are watching. The yacht booze cruise with Marine Max? Already making waves. Therapy dog training with Landis and Bear? It’s a full-on bidding war.

Your favorites won’t wait, so why should you? Every single dollar raised goes directly to our Annual Fund--the most important financial lifeline of our school--so don’t miss out on these amazing items! Ready, set, BID!

As we enter into our final trimester, we have some bittersweet news to share—celebrating beloved faculty members embarking on new journeys and welcoming back a familiar face!

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tatyana Brannon, Glen Schubert, and Kaylie Saidin for their incredible contributions to Friends. Their impact on our students, both in and out of the classroom, has been profound, and we wish them all the best in their next adventures.

At the same time, we are thrilled to welcome back Cameron Francisco as our new Middle School Social Studies teacher! Cam, a longtime Friends educator, brings deep expertise and enthusiasm, and we’re so excited for his return to the classroom!

Read the full announcement from Middle School Director Amy below.

Pickle jars for water bottles? White socks with sandals? Have you noticed something a little...off...with our teachers this week? That’s because it's Underground Spirit Week! Our students don’t get to have allllll the fun. We decided to start our own faculty spirit days, complete with twinning outfits, all-black ensembles, and some truly creative takes on “Anything But a Cup” (hiking boot, anyone?). From toe sock fashion statements to some seriously impressive hat game, our teachers are proving that school spirit isn’t just for students. We can't wait for the fun to continue next week with students!  

Our Division A Science Olympians rocked the socks off the New Hanover County Regional Tournament last Saturday, bringing home multiple medals, a shiny silver trophy, and plenty of happy tears and cheers! With standout performances across Junior Varsity and Varsity events—including first-place finishes in Ecology Experts, Weather Permitting, Sky Quest, and Data Crunchers—our students showcased not just their scientific skills but their resiliency, teamwork, and support for one another.

And now, it’s our Middle Schoolers’ turn! This Saturday, our Division B team heads into competition at UNCW, ready to take on the best in the region. We can’t wait to cheer them on, so stay tuned for updates!

Check out the full list of winners and highlights at the link below, and join us in wishing our Middle School team the best of luck in the days ahead! 🚀🔬 🧬

Last week, a group of 14 Middle School artists swapped their Upper Campus classrooms for the coastline, spending two days at Bald Head Island Conservancy exploring, collecting, and creating. Using natural materials found along the beach—driftwood, shells, and sea grass—they crafted artwork inspired by the island itself. More than anything, the retreat was a chance to step away from the everyday, slow down, and create just for the joy of it. To top it off, the Conservancy hosted an all-island art show featuring their work! Our students even left behind a piece that will remain on display in the weeks ahead, sharing a bit of their creativity with future visitors.

Spring Break Soccer Shots Camp

Looking for a fun way to keep your kids moving over Spring Break? Soccer Shots Camp is open to all grade levels and packed with skill-building, games, and plenty of time on the field. Whether they’re just starting out or already soccer-obsessed, it’s all about playing, learning, and having a great time. Spots are limited—SIGN UP HERE.

20th Annual Alumni Day

We are so excited to celebrate our 20th Annual Alumni Day Celebration on Monday, March 24th, from 12:00-2:30 PM! Join us to reconnect with old friends, visit teachers, and spend time in advisory for a special Q&A panel with current students. We’ll end the day together in an all-school Meeting for Worship at Longleaf to reflect and share in the spirit of our community. RSVP HERE.

Learning Specialist

On Tuesday, Tony shared an exciting email announcement that we will be hiring a full-time Learning Specialist for next year! This is a big step in strengthening student support for all learning journeys across FSW, and we can’t wait to welcome them to our team. Check out the full message HERE. 

Annual Fund Thanks & Donation Receipts

As tax season approaches, please reach out to Director of Development & Marketing Rachel Presley if you need receipts for your donation history. And be sure to save the date for our upcoming virtual auction taking place March 3rd-10th. 100% of the proceeds go directly to support our Annual Fund! 

Supporting Pollinators (Without the Sneezes!) 

Spring is in the air—and so is the pollen! While seasonal allergies can be tough, not all pollen is the same. Wind-pollinated trees like oak, pine, and birch are the main culprits behind those sniffles, while native wildflowers actually support pollinators without making allergies worse. Want to help? Plant native species like goldenrod and bee balm in your garden! These native plants thrive in coastal North Carolina, attract pollinators, and keep their pollen close. A win-win for you and the environment!  🐝🌸

Last Week's FriendsMail (02/27/25)

Lower School Handbook

Middle School Handbook

Family Handbook

Technology Guide & All-School Technology Policy

School News

Calendar

Shop the School Store

Support the Annual Fund