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
Visit Opportunities
Register for an information session or a campus visit today!

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.

GETTING INVOLVED
Extracurricular clubs and activities abound at Shady Side, allowing students to explore new interests, meet new friends and take on leadership roles.
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.

Counseling Support

Shady Side Academy has full-time licensed mental health counselors on each campus to support students, faculty, staff and families.

Ms. Lais Alexander

Titles: AHN Chill Project School Based Counselor

Locations: Senior School

Email:

Dr. Claudia Henry Ph.D.

Dr. Claudia Henry Ph.D.

Titles: Counselor; Academy Director of Personal Counseling

Locations: Senior School

Email:

Phone Numbers:
School: 724-884-3845

Ms. Georgia Leasher

Ms. Georgia Leasher

Class of 2013

Titles: Counselor

Locations: Middle School

Email:

Phone Numbers:
School: 412-968-3159

Mrs. Claudine Runnette LPC

Mrs. Claudine Runnette LPC

Titles: Counselor

Locations: Country Day School

Email:

Phone Numbers:
School: 412-963-2830

Mr. Creighton Runnette MA, LMHC

Mr. Creighton Runnette MA, LMHC

Class of 1989

Titles: Counselor; Residential Life Staff

Locations: Senior School

Email:

Phone Numbers:
School: 412-968-3202

Mr. Michael Speal

Mr. Michael Speal

Titles: Counselor

Locations: Junior School

Email:

Phone Numbers:
School: 412-473-4376