History of Southside
Southside High School opened in the fall of 1963. The school welcomed 971 students in grades 7–10 and quickly became known for its strong academic programs, spirited student body, and commitment to preparing students for success after graduation. From its earliest days, Southside established a culture of excellence that extended beyond the classroom.
Southside has continued to grow and evolve, shaping generations of graduates who carry Southside’s legacy of excellence into colleges, careers, and communities across the country.
A Tradition of Excellence
Over the decades, Southside has become one of the region’s most respected public high schools. The school has received the prestigious “School of Excellence” designation three times from the U.S. Department of Education and was one of only four schools in the nation to earn the honor twice during the 1980s. Additionally, Newsweek recognized Southside as one of “America’s Top Schools” for ten consecutive years.
Southside’s Growth and Expansion
Originally built with 44 classrooms, the Southside campus has expanded significantly over time to meet the needs of a growing student population:
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1968: Nine-room wing added
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1973: Twelve-room wing added
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1977: 600-seat auditorium constructed
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1978: All-weather track installed
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1981: Physical education facility added
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1988: New stadium completed
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1992–2000: Business, cafeteria, fine arts, and science additions
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2008: Activities center built
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2011: Upgrades including artificial turf, energy-efficient windows, and parking improvements
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2019: $35 million multi-phase project including a Freshman Center, competition gym with storm shelter, and major updates to the cafeteria, media center, and administrative areas
Changes and Legacy
In 2015, Southside began a new chapter in its history—one that reflected the evolving values and vision of its school community. The school’s original mascot and fight song were retired in favor of new symbols that more fully embraced the spirit of inclusivity and unity. A diverse committee made up of students, alumni, staff, and community members was formed to help lead the transition.
After thoughtful consideration, the Maverick was selected as the new mascot—representing strength, independence, and pride. The “Wabash Cannonball” was adopted as the new fight song for the 2015–16 school year. During the 2016–17 school year, Southside unveiled new signage, uniforms, and branding, marking the official beginning of the Mavericks era.
Discover Our History
Explore the rich history of Southside High School. Here, you'll find documents, stories, and resources that highlight key milestones and achievements of our school. Dive into the past to see how Southside Elementary evolved and has made a lasting impact on the community. Click the links below to learn more.
Contribute to Our History
We invite you to share any resources, stories, or photos you may have about Southside High School. Your contributions help preserve
the rich history and legacy of our school. Please contact the District Communications Department.