Affording Shady Side academy

Parents recognize the importance of a strong elementary and secondary education to prepare children for success in college and in life. Many families turn to the small classes, individual attention, outstanding teachers, emphasis on balance and breadth of programming, and the leadership and global opportunities offered by Shady Side Academy. 

Nonetheless, there is no question that an independent school education is costly. Independent schools are self-supported; they are not dependent upon church funds as parochial schools are, or upon tax dollars as public schools are. Independent schools receive no federal funding and most, like Shady Side, are not-for-profit. Independent schools charge tuition, which contributes to the operating needs of the school, but is not the sole source of revenue. Most independent schools offer financial aid.

At Shady Side Academy, we are proud of our long history of helping families make an independent school education possible for their children. Through our policies and practices we strive to see that no talented and motivated student is denied the opportunities afforded by a Shady Side education simply because the cost of that education may be a challenge for the student's family. We believe strongly that financial aid enriches the experience of all members of the Shady Side Academy community. It allows us to create a community of learners from different backgrounds, who will bring varying points of view into the classroom, cultivate each other's strengths, and helps students and teachers alike to see the many facets of the world around us.