Excellence isn't built in a single year. It's built year after year. Southside Elementary School has earned an A school grade for 12 consecutive years, reflecting a culture where students are challenged, supported, and inspired to achieve their very best. That's the kind of consistency families can trust.

#WeAreNassau #NicerInNassau

Enroll today in your neighborhood A-rated school and experience the excellence that makes Nassau County one of the highest-performing school districts in Florida. https://www.nassau.k12.fl.us/enroll

28 days ago, Nassau County School District
Graphic celebrating Southside Elementary School for earning an A school grade for 12 consecutive years. The design features a large gold "12," the message "12 Consecutive Years as an A School," and Southside Elementary School's mascot, highlighting a sustained tradition of academic excellence and student success in the Nassau County School District.
Florida's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday runs July 20 through August 20, 2026. During this time, many school supplies, clothing, footwear, learning aids, and other eligible items can be purchased tax-free.

Visit https://floridarevenue.com/backtoschool/ for a complete list of qualifying items and additional details before you shop.
about 1 month ago, Nassau County School District
Graphic promoting Florida's Back to School Sales Tax Holiday. The Florida Department of Revenue logo appears at the top. Large teal text reads, "Back to School Sales Tax Holiday." Below, the dates "July 20 to August 20, 2026" are displayed, followed by the message, "For a list of qualifying items, visit floridarevenue.com/BacktoSchool." A row of colorful sharpened pencils spans the bottom of the graphic.

📅 Plan ahead for the 2026-2027 school year!
Whether you're planning a family vacation, a long weekend getaway, or simply looking ahead, our 2026-2027 Extended Break Planner makes it easy to see every major school break at a glance.
From long weekends to holiday breaks, the school calendar offers several opportunities throughout the year for families to reconnect, recharge, and make lasting memories together. We hope this planner helps you make the most of every season.

📄 Download and print a copy here: https://aptg.co/-gcVxm

This planner highlights major district breaks, but there's even more to look forward to throughout the year!
For your school's complete calendar, including events, activities, and important dates, visit our online calendar or download the Nassau County School District app.
📱 District App:
Download for Android: https://aptg.co/s1V3Sq
Download for iPhone: https://aptg.co/dtLZNY
🗓️ Online Calendar: https://nassau.k12.fl.us/calendar

2026-2027 Extended Break Planner
🔹 Labor Day 3-Day Weekend: September 5 through 7
Students return on September 8
🔹 Columbus Day 3-Day Weekend: October 10 through 12
Students return on October 13
🔹 Thanksgiving Break 9-Day Break: November 21 through 29
Students return on November 30
🔹 Winter Break 17-Day Break: December 19 through January 4
Students return on January 5
🔹 Martin Luther King Jr. Day 3-Day Weekend: January 16 through 18
Students return on January 19
🔹 Presidents Day 3-Day Weekend: February 13 through 15
Students return on February 16
🔹 Spring Break 10-Day Break: March 13 through 22
Students return on March 23
🔹 School Holiday 3-Day Weekend: April 30 through May 2
Students return on May 3

Enroll today in your neighborhood A-rated school and experience the excellence that makes Nassau County one of the highest-performing school districts in Florida. https://www.nassau.k12.fl.us/enroll

#WeAreNassau #NicerInNassau

about 1 month ago, Nassau County School District
Graphic titled "Nassau County School District 2026-2027 Extended Break Planner." The planner lists major school breaks for the 2026-2027 school year and the date students return to school. Labor Day: September 5 through 7, students return September 8. Columbus Day: October 10 through 12, students return October 13. Thanksgiving Break: November 21 through 29, students return November 30. Winter Break: December 19 through January 4, students return January 5. Martin Luther King Jr. Day: January 16 through 18, students return January 19. Presidents Day: February 13 through 15, students return February 16. Spring Break: March 13 through 22, students return March 23. School Holiday: April 30 through May 2, students return May 3. The graphic features the Nassau County School District logo with blue and white branding.
🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟

Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome to Ms. Jacqueline Chavez our newest Paraprofessional!

We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community.
A message from Ms. Chavez:

Hello my name is Jacque Chavez. I live in Kingsland GA. I live with my husband and two cats! I have three grown sons and 6 grandchildren. I have been a paraprofessional in Arizona, Colorado and Florida. With 20 years experience.

I love spending Sunday dinners with family. Going to the beach working out and reading.

We are thrilled to have Ms. Chavez as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together!

Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨

#WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether #EveryStudentMatters #EveryMomentCounts See less
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
Portrait-style staff introduction graphic for Southside Elementary School. A smiling woman with blond hair in ponytail is pictured against aa waterfront view. The Nassau County School District logo appears in the upper left corner, and the Southside Elementary lighthouse logo with the motto “Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts” appears in the upper right corner. The Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot is displayed in the lower left corner. Text on the graphic reads: “Ms. Jacqueline Chavez,” “Southside Elementary,” “2026–2027,” and “Paraprofessional.” The design features navy blue and gold school colors.
🎉☕ Kindergarten Boo Hoo Breakfast ☕🎉

Calling all Kindergarten parents and guardians! We invite you to join us for our annual Boo Hoo Breakfast on Thursday, August 13th, from 7:45 AM–8:30 AM.

After you walk your child to their classroom and say your goodbyes, join us for a special time to connect with other Kindergarten families, learn about our amazing PTO, and discover the many ways you can get involved at Southside Elementary this year.

We look forward to welcoming our newest Little Pirate families and partnering with you for an incredible school year because Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts! 🏴‍☠️❤️
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
Graphic with a blue background featuring the Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot at the top. Large bold text reads, "CALENDAR UPDATES." A blue banner below says, "SES WEBPAGE AND NCSD APP." At the bottom, white text reads, "Utilize our website calendar for all scheduled events." The design encourages families to check the Southside Elementary website and Nassau County School District app for the latest school calendar updates and events.
🍎 Back-to-School Checklist for Southside Families! ⚓

Help your Little Pirate start the school year off right by completing these important annual tasks:

✅ Complete your Free & Reduced Meal Application
Meal benefit applications must be submitted each school year, even if your family qualified last year.

💳 Set Up or Manage Your Lunch Account
Use the online meal account system to add funds, enroll in automatic payments, and monitor your child's lunch account with ease.

🙋 Apply to Be a School Volunteer
Volunteer applications must also be completed every year and approved by the Nassau County School Board. If you'd like to:

Chaperone a field trip
Volunteer in your child's classroom
Help with school events or activities

...your volunteer application must be submitted and approved before you can participate.

Taking care of these items now will help ensure you're ready for all the exciting opportunities this school year!

Thank you for partnering with us to make Southside Elementary a wonderful place to learn, grow, and serve. 💙💛

Every Student Matters. Every Moment Counts. 🏴‍☠️
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
Graphic with a blue background featuring the Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot at the top. Large bold text reads, "TIME TO APPLY." Two blue banners below list "FREE & REDUCED LUNCH" and "VOLUNTEER APPLICATION." The graphic reminds Southside Elementary families that it is time to complete their annual free and reduced-price meal application and volunteer application before the start of the school year.

🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟

Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome to Ms. Kelli Tucker, our new 1st Grade Teacher!

We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community.

Hi, Little Pirates!

My name is Kelli Tucker. I live in Fernandina Beach with my husband, Kyle, and our dog, Pepper. This is my fifth year as an elementary educator. I graduated from the University of North Florida with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and am currently pursuing a master's degree.

I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, gardening, reading, and shark tooth hunting. I am passionate about making a positive impact in our community and a meaningful difference in education. I can't wait to meet you all this school year!

We are thrilled to have Ms. Tucker as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together!

Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨

#WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether


about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
Portrait-style staff introduction graphic for Southside Elementary School. A smiling woman with long brown hair is pictured against a softly blurred outdoor background. The Nassau County School District logo appears in the upper left corner, and the Southside Elementary lighthouse logo with the motto “Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts” appears in the upper right corner. The Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot is displayed in the lower left corner. Text on the graphic reads: “Ms. Kelli Tucker,” “Southside Elementary,” “2026–2027,” and “1st Grade.” The design features navy blue and gold school colors.
⚾🏴‍☠️ Welcome Back, Southside Families! 🏴‍☠️⚾ The July/August edition of the Southside Parent Connection Newsletter is here, and we are excited to kick off a brand-new school year! Inside this edition, you'll find important back-to-school information, key dates, school updates, helpful reminders, and resources to help your Little Pirate start the year strong. As we begin another amazing year together, we remain committed to our mission: Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts. By working as a team—school and home—we can help every child learn, grow, and thrive. https://app.smore.com/n/u5kw3 #SouthsideElementary #LittlePirates #EveryStudentMattersEveryMomentCounts #BackToSchool #SouthsideParentConnection #TeamSouthside #NewSchoolYear
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
📅 Chart Your Course for a Great Year, Little Pirates! ⚓

Our 2026–2027 Southside Elementary Calendar of Events is now available! From teacher planning days and holidays to family events, award ceremonies, and special school celebrations, you'll find all the important dates in one place.

📍 Visit the Southside Elementary website to view the complete Calendar of Events.

📱 Have the NCSD App? You can easily access Southside's calendar and other important Nassau County School District dates right from your phone. We'll keep our calendar updated throughout the year so you'll always have the latest information.

Be sure to check it often and stay connected. We can't wait to make this an amazing year because Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts! 💙🏴‍☠️
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
Graphic with a blue background featuring the Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot at the top. Large bold text reads, "CALENDAR UPDATES." A blue banner below says, "SES WEBPAGE AND NCSD APP." At the bottom, white text reads, "Utilize our website calendar for all scheduled events." The design encourages families to check the Southside Elementary website and Nassau County School District app for the latest school calendar updates and events.
📞 Teacher Welcome Calls Begin July 31!

Starting July 31, our Southside Elementary teachers will begin reaching out to -families to introduce themselves and welcome students to the new school year. This first connection is an exciting step in helping your child feel confident and ready for a successful year ahead!

🏡 Please make sure your contact information are up to date in FOCUS so you don't miss important back-to-school communications.

Need to update your information? Please call (904) 491-7941 after July 27 and speak with Ms. LaCombe.

We are excited to welcome our Little Pirates back for another fantastic school year! Keep an eye on your phone —your child's teacher is looking forward to connecting with your family soon. ✉️⚓💙💛

Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts.
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
Blue and white Southside Elementary graphic featuring the Little Pirate mascot at the top. Centered inside a white rounded rectangle is the text “SES Class Assignments” in large blue and gold letters. The design uses the school colors of blue, white, and gold and serves as an announcement for student class assignments.
🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟 Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome back to Ms. Jonnilin Danford, our new 1st Grade teacher! We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community. A message from Ms. Danford: Hello! My name is Jonnilin Danford. I live locally with my husband, Josh, and our three children, Julian, Jai, and Harper. This is my third year as an elementary educator. I earned my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Saint Leo University. I am a Florida-certified K–6 teacher with Reading and ESOL endorsements. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, spending time outdoors, and making memories with my family. Random fun fact: I love random green things such as avocados 🥑, lizards 🦎 and cactus! 🌵 I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to Southside Elementary School and am excited to continue growing alongside such an amazing school community. I look forward to the years ahead and to making a positive impact in the lives of my students and their families. We are thrilled to have Ms. Danford back as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together! Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨ #WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether #EveryStudentMatters #EveryMomentCounts
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
Portrait-style staff introduction graphic for Southside Elementary School. A smiling woman with long brown hair and highlights is pictured against a softly grey blurred background. The Nassau County School District logo appears in the upper left corner, and the Southside Elementary lighthouse logo with the motto “Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts” appears in the upper right corner. The Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot is displayed in the lower left corner. Text on the graphic reads: “Ms. Johnnilin Danford” “Southside Elementary,” “2026–2027,” and “1st Grade.” The design features navy blue and gold school colors.
At SES, our Kindergarten & Pre-K students do a “staggered start” which means that 1/3 of the students will come on Aug. 10th, 1/3, on the 11th, and the final 1/3 will come on the 12th as their first day of school. Then, all kindergarteners will attend starting on the 13th as a full class. Information on what day your child begins will be relayed to you by their teacher on August 3rd when they call to introduce themselves.
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
Blue and white informational graphic featuring the Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot at the top. Large text in the center reads, “Kindergarten Staggered Start.” A blue banner below displays the dates “August 10th–12th.” At the bottom, white text states, “First full day for Kinder students will be Thursday August 13th.” The design uses Southside Elementary’s school colors of blue, white, and gold.
🚗⚓ Plan Ahead, Little Pirates! ⚓🚗 To help ensure the safety of all students and minimize disruptions to instruction, we want to remind families of our student early pick-up procedures. 📌 Students may only be checked out while they are in their classrooms. Throughout the day, classes rotate through activities, recess, and lunch, making it difficult to safely retrieve students once they have left the classroom. ⏰ Early pick-up cut-off times: • 1:00 PM on regular school days • 12:00 PM on Wednesdays Please plan appointments and schedule changes accordingly to help us maintain a safe, orderly campus and maximize instructional time for every student. Thank you for partnering with us to keep our Little Pirates safe and learning every day! 💙💛 Every Student Matters… Every Moment Counts! 🏴‍☠️ https://canva.link/rjoedqeay65cmho
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School

🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟

Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome to Ms. Michelle Arseneau, our new School Resource Officer!

We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community.

A message from Ms. Arseneau:

My name is Michelle Arseneau and I am thrilled to join the family at Southside Elementary School!! I recently retired from the Fernandina Beach Police Department after 13 years. During my FBPD career, I was a patrol officer, a detective, and a School Resource Officer at Fernandina Beach Middle School. After retiring, I quickly joined the Nassau County School Board Police Department and served as the SRO for Hilliard Elementary School, 2025- 2026.

Prior to law enforcement, I was a Job Coach at the Fernandina Beach High School for seven years.

I love spending time with my husband, grandchild, and fishing. Running and exercising with my friends keeps me going and ready for anything.

We are thrilled to have Ms. Arseneau as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together!
Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨
#WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether #EveryStudentMatters #EveryMomentCounts

about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
Portrait-style staff introduction graphic for Southside Elementary School. A smiling woman with short brown hair wearing a ball cap with the words NC School District Police is pictured against a softly blurred outdoor background. The Nassau County School District logo appears in the upper left corner, and the Southside Elementary lighthouse logo with the motto “Every Student Matters, Every Moment Counts” appears in the upper right corner. The Southside Elementary Little Pirate mascot is displayed in the lower left corner. Text on the graphic reads: “Ms. Michelle Arseneau,” “Southside Elementary,” “2026–2027,” and “School Resource Officer” The design features navy blue and gold school colors.

🚗⚓ Little Pirates, Let's Practice Morning Drop-Off! ⚓🚗

Starting school is an exciting adventure, especially for our incoming Kindergarten students! To help make the first days of school safe, smooth, and stress-free, we've created a short video demonstrating our morning car rider procedures and how students should safely exit their vehicles at drop-off.

Practicing these simple steps at home before the first day can help build confidence, encourage independence, and keep our car line moving efficiently for everyone.

📹 Watch the video here: https://canva.link/ep0vns3i5xmzyi7

A few reminders for our Little Pirates:
🏴‍☠️ Have backpacks on and ready before arriving at school.
🏴‍☠️ Be prepared to exit from the passenger side of the vehicle.
🏴‍☠️ Give hugs and goodbyes before entering the drop-off line.
🏴‍☠️ Listen to staff members who are there to help every morning.

When we practice together, we create a safe and successful start to every school day.

Every Student Matters… Every Moment Counts! 💙💛

about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟 Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome to Ms. Lacey Burges, our new Support Facilitator! We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community. A message from Ms. Burgess: Hello! My name is Lacey Burgess, and I am originally from Virginia. I have been working in education for the past five years and have spent the last two years teaching. I hold a degree in both Elementary Education and Special Education and am passionate about helping all students reach their full potential. I have a wonderful three-year-old daughter, Cora, who keeps me busy. I enjoy going to the beach and spending quality time with my family. I am excited to be a part of the Southside Elementary family this year and look forward to getting to know our students, families, and staff and making this a great year together! We are thrilled to have Ms. Burgess as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together! Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨ #WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether #EveryStudentMatters #EveryMomentCounts
about 1 month ago, Southside Elementary School
A smiling person with brown hair and a green shirt stands in front of a blue marbled background.
🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟

Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome to Ms. Riley Webber, our new Self-Contained Gen-Ed Teacher!

We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community.

A message from Ms. Webber:

Hi! My name is Riley Webber and I have lived in Fernandina for most of my life. This will be my first year as a teacher! I graduated from Florida State University with both my Bachelors and Masters in Special Education.

I am a Florida certified K-12 teacher with certificates in ESE, ESOL, and Autism. I am also Reading Endorsed. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends!


We are thrilled to have Ms. Webber as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together!

Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨

#WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether #EveryStudentMatters #EveryMomentCounts
about 2 months ago, Southside Elementary School
A graduate wearing a white dress and maroon sash holds a graduation cap and diploma outside a building.
🌟 Meet the Newest Member of the Southside Family! 🌟 Please join us in giving a warm Southside welcome to Ms. Ashlyn Dominey, our new 2nd Grade Teacher! We are excited to have her join our team and know that her talents, passion, and dedication will make a wonderful impact on our students, families, and school community. 💬 A message from Ms. Dominey: Hi everyone! My name is Ashlyn Dominey. I am originally from Fleming Island, Florida and looking forward to moving to the Fernandina area with my chocolate lab, Bailey. This will be my 2nd year teaching. I graduated from Florida State University with my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and my master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I am also a Florida certified K-6 teacher with Reading and ESOL endorsements. I love reading, going on walks with my dog, and relaxing on the beach. I am so excited to start this school year and become part of the SES family!! We are thrilled to have Ms. Dominey as part of the Southside family and look forward to an amazing year ahead together! Be sure to say hello and help us make her feel right at home. 💙✨ #WelcomeToSouthside #SouthsideFamily #NewTeamMember #GrowingTogether #EveryStudentMatters #EveryMomentCounts
about 2 months ago, Southside Elementary School
A headshot of a person with long, dark hair smiling against a blue background.
Help us stock the Teachers' Lounge for our amazing faculty and staff to enjoy a treat when they return in August! Click on the link below to see an Amazon wish list of items that you can have sent directly to the school. Or drop it off at Meet and Greet on 8/5. We appreciate your generosity!

https://a.co/02eaOvAK

https://canva.link/ngbxo48b1eeeq0g

about 2 months ago, Southside Elementary School
🌿✨ You're Invited! Campus Beautification Day at Southside Elementary! ✨🌿

Hello, Southside Elementary family, friends, and community partners!

They say it takes a village—and we couldn't agree more. As we get ready to welcome our students, faculty, and staff back for an amazing 2026–2027 school year, we're inviting YOU to help us make our campus shine!

📅 Saturday, August 1, 2026
⏰ 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Southside Elementary School

Join us as we work together to create a beautiful, welcoming environment for our students by:
🌸 Beautifying our butterfly garden
🌳 Spreading mulch around campus
✂️ Trimming trees and landscaping areas
🛠️ Completing other campus improvement projects

https://canva.link/lsxh2e2xtfo69p6

Whether you can volunteer on your own, bring a few coworkers, or rally your entire organization, every helping hand makes a difference! This is a wonderful opportunity to give back, strengthen our community partnerships, and help prepare our school for another incredible year of learning and growth.
about 2 months ago, Southside Elementary School