Sidwell Friends School

Sidwell Friends School is one of the most renowned and selective private schools in the United States, located in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1883 by Thomas Sidwell, the school operates under the care of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) and provides a rigorous college-preparatory education grounded in Quaker values of equality, integrity, community, and stewardship. The school serves students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 across two campuses, with the upper school in northwest Washington and the lower and middle school in Bethesda, Maryland.

The academic program at Sidwell Friends is exceptionally strong, offering a challenging curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, extensive electives, and independent study opportunities. The school is particularly known for its strength in STEM education, humanities, world languages, and the arts. Students benefit from an extensive advisory system, small class sizes, and access to outstanding resources. The Quaker tradition of silent worship (Meeting for Worship) is a distinctive feature of school life, encouraging reflection, mindfulness, and community connection.

Sidwell Friends has educated children of numerous U.S. presidents, including Theodore Roosevelt, Richard Nixon, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden, as well as many other prominent figures in politics, business, and the arts. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities including a LEED Platinum-certified middle school building, modern science labs, a performing arts center, athletic facilities, and an organic garden. With approximately 1,150 students, Sidwell Friends maintains a diverse and intellectually vibrant community. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association and is a member of the Friends Council on Education.