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Welcome to Southside Academy Charter School - Elevating Education, Building Character™

Southside Academy Charter School is a tuition-free public charter school in Syracuse serving students in grades K-8. We shape instruction to build on the strengths and abilities of each student and integrate Moral Focus™ lessons into every school day. As a result, our students are well-prepared from kindergarten through eighth grade. A Stanford University study found National Heritage Academies partner-school students gained the equivalent of 3.5 months of additional learning each year compared to peers.

I'm Ready to Apply I Want to Learn More

Get Ready! Enrollment Updates Coming by April 6

New families can expect to find out if their student has been accepted by Monday, April 6.

Thank you for choosing a school that values academic growth, strong character, and partnership with parents.

Interested in applying for the 2026-27 school year? Apply here today!

Our Academic Success by the Numbers

17 Years

Student Responsibility

Southside has outperformed the local district for the past 17 years.

#1

Top-Ranked Performance

We are ranked the #1 school in the area based on academic performance.

86%

Moral Focus™ Impact

86% of Southside Academy Charter School parents see a positive impact from NHA's Moral Focus™ program.

Meet Your Principal

"I'm a dedicated and passionate individual whose heart beats for education and Southside. In my 15 years as an educator, I have witnessed the incredible impact that a dedicated teacher can have on the lives of students. The joy of witnessing a student's "aha" moment, the satisfaction of seeing them grow into confident individuals—these moments fuel my passion for education."

- Shannon Gallo, Principal at Southside

Meet Your Principal

Why Families Trust Southside Academy Charter School

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Academic Excellence

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Moral Focus™

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Student Responsibility

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Parent Partnership

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Family & Student Support

At a Glance

K-8

Grades

687

Amazing Students

2002

Year Opened

Southside Parent

My children's academic growth this year has been astounding. My kids have taken a lot of responsibility and pride in turning in their work on time and making sure they always try their hardest.

More Information

There are a lot of factors in deciding where your child will go to school and we want to help. Use our live chat or leave your information and we will be in touch.

Contact Me

Tour the School

Schedule a school tour and learn more about our personalized teaching, Moral Focus program, after-school activities, clubs, sports, and more.

Tour the School

Apply Today

Apply online, in person, or over the phone and don’t hesitate to ask us questions along the way! We are here for you.

Apply Today!
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