Tucked within the bustle of Central Islip is a treasure of hope for a brighter future: the South Shore Charter School. The modest building along Carleton Avenue houses a vibrant elementary program built on high expectations, academic excellence, and strong character development.
A tuition-free public charter school, South Shore currently serves K–5 scholars at its flagship campus, with plans to expand through 12th grade. The school was founded to give families a true choice in high-quality education, offering a safe and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. With many families seeking alternatives that help children reach their full potential now—not years from now—South Shore delivers an educational model grounded in excellence.
The school’s founder, Mr. Dermoth Mattison, brings nearly 20 years of experience in school administration, including leadership in a nationally acclaimed public charter school. His passion for community investment and educational opportunity guides the school’s mission. A humble leader, Mr. Mattison consistently shifts praise to his faculty and students.
Under Mattison’s leadership, 99% of South Shore scholars have met or exceeded their annual growth goals in reading and math on the NWEA MAP assessment—a remarkable achievement for a young school. Before founding South Shore, he served as principal of a school widely recognized for outperforming its local district and fostering strong student development.
South Shore’s success is not the work of one person but the result of a dedicated team committed to creating a culture of long-term achievement. The faculty’s passion for teaching and student growth forms the foundation of the South Shore family. The school’s core values—Integrity, Grit, Resilience, Excellence, Accountability, and Tenacity—shape daily life and give every student and staff member the confidence to say, “I am GREAT.”
South Shore Charter School proudly embraces its role as a place where greatness is nurtured, future leaders are developed, innovation begins, and creativity thrives. For the families of Central Islip and the surrounding community, the school stands as a lasting beacon of opportunity—a lighthouse illuminating the path toward a promising future for every child it serves.