About
World-Class Education
Shady Side Academy has set the standard for educational excellence in Western Pennsylvania for more than 130 years.

Our Mission
Challenging students to think expansively, act ethically and lead responsibly.
Admissions
E xplore our Campuses
Explore our beautiful campuses, meet our students and faculty, and more!

Because "How" Matters
At Shady Side Academy, the difference is "how" – how we engage, how we explore, how we educate.
Schools
FOUR CAMPUSES, ONE ACADEMY
Across 189 acres and four campuses, SSA students have plenty of space to learn, play, create and compete.

TWO WAYS TO BOARD
Seven- and five-day boarding options offer an enriching Senior School experience in a supportive residential community.
Academics
Signature Programs
Learn more about the academic programs that set SSA apart from other schools.

College-Ready
Our three full-time college counselors help SSA students find their best fit colleges.
Arts
A Commitment to the Arts
At a time when other schools are cutting arts programs, our commitment to the arts has never been stronger.

Alumni in the Spotlight
Alumni in the arts include a Tony winner, two Grammy nominees and a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee.
Athletics
Support our Sports Teams
Check the calendar for upcoming events and cheer on our athletes.

Playing at the Next Level
Each year, a number of our graduates go on to play athletics in college.
Student Life
THE VALUE OF SERVICE
All students engage in service projects that reach beyond our campuses to the greater Pittsburgh region and around the world.

Down on the Farm
Our unique SSA Farm initiative integrates sustainability and hands-on learning into the PK-12 curriculum.
Support
The Blue & Gold Fund
Your support provides innovative programs and experiences that prepare our students to make a difference in the world.

Make a Gift
Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of our students and faculty. Make your gift now.
#SSANow
A Day in the Life
What is SSA really like? Watch our videos to get a peek into a typical day in the life of Shady Side students.

In Their Own Words
Read our blogs, and get to know our students and faculty as they share their experiences at SSA.

Welcome, SSA Alumni!

You are an invaluable part of SSA's past, present and future. The goal of the SSA Alumni Office is to enhance your memories of your time as a student, strengthen your bond with the Academy, keep you connected with beloved former faculty and your lifetime friends.

Here, you'll find resources and information to help you stay connected to SSA and your classmates. Download our alumni app, read the latest issue of SSA Magazine or the alumni newsletter, find an alumni event in your area, make plans to attend Homecoming, volunteer as a class agent or on a reunion committee, or submit a class note to the magazine to let your classmates know what you've been up to!

Alumni Reflections

VIDEO: Young alumni reflect on how SSA prepared them for college.

Order an SSA License Plate

license plate

To order an SSA license plate, complete and mail the Special Organization Plate application with a $50 check payable to SSA to: Shady Side Academy, Attn: Sarah Casey, 423 Fox Chapel Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238.