College Preparation

Preparing students for college is not a one-time event at SANY schools; it is a comprehensive, continuous journey that begins the moment a student walks through our doors. We take college readiness seriously, not as a distant goal, but as a daily mindset woven into school culture, expectations, and experiences across all grade levels.

Aligned in every way with the school’s mission to graduate college-ready and civic-minded students, the importance of college readiness is understood very well at SASCS. In addition to high-quality instruction and curriculum, programs during school, after school, and during the summer have already been developed and practiced to make sure that every student has an opportunity to attend college.

In elementary school, college begins in kindergarten. Students visit local colleges and universities, and the year includes an annual College Week that is celebrated across the school. This early exposure helps students view college as an achievable and expected part of their future.

Students in grades 8–12 are supported by a dedicated college guidance counselor who works closely with students and their families throughout the college exploration and enrollment process. Beginning in 9th grade, the counselor supports students with career planning, identifying colleges that are the right fit, and applying for scholarships.

High school students are exposed to many colleges and universities through annual college fairs, regular guest speakers, and continued college campus visits. Academically, students in eighth grade may begin taking high school-level courses, which opens the door for them to start earning college credits as early as their sophomore year.

SAS High School offers several college-level courses through Onondaga Community College and SUNY ESF, including Math, Science, English, and Social Science courses that can transfer to local colleges and universities. During their junior and senior years, students may also take full-time dual credit courses at the college campus. With careful planning and support, students even have the opportunity to earn an Associate’s Degree from Onondaga Community College while still in high school.