The District has a rich, vibrant history and has seen a great deal of growth and change over the last 130 years. With the incorporation of the Borough of Swarthmore in 1893, an independent school district was formed. The Swarthmore and Rutledge School Districts were merged in 1955. In 1963, the Pennsylvania state legislature determined that all school districts should be reorganized. After a long series of court battles, the Nether Providence and Swarthmore-Rutledge School Districts were merged together, creating the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District in 1971. Nether Providence High School and Swarthmore High School were consolidated in 1983 with the opening of Strath Haven High School. In 1991, all district middle school students were merged into Strath Haven Middle School. Today, a large percentage of area school-age children attend the District’s five schools, and the District has dedicated itself to a tradition of excellence. Grounded in a deep sense of community, WSSD maintains a strong and diverse set of curricular, programmatic, and extracurricular activities. Parent and community involvement remain one of the district’s greatest strengths.

Drawing on over a century of strong, foundational values, the District is comprised of three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. These include:

• Strath Haven High School
• Strath Haven Middle School
• Nether Providence Elementary School
• Swarthmore-Rutledge School
• Wallingford Elementary School

Committed to ensuring the academic achievement and personal growth of all students, WSSD is dedicated at every level to providing students with the foundational tools needed to become life-long learners. Currently, the District serves over 3800 students and is supported by over 500 faculty and staff members.

What to Love

• Small town charm
• Charming architecture
• Lots of local businesses
• Family friendly

Local Lifestyle

Wallingford-Swarthmore offers a balanced blend of suburban tranquility, community engagement, and easy access to Philadelphia. Residents are deeply involved in local events, school activities, and civic organizations. Local parks, playgrounds, and family-oriented events make it easy for families to enjoy time together outdoors. The community’s many green spaces, like Swarthmore College's picturesque campus, make it ideal for those who love to spend time outside. You’ll find a variety of locally-owned restaurants and shops that give the area a unique charm. Wallingford’s Main Street, and town center offer a charming shopping experience, home to many small, local businesses.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Wallingford is home to many local spots, offering delicious food. The White Dog Cafe is a farm-to-table, American cuisine restaurant, with a great selection of seasonal meals using locally sourced ingredients. Swarthmore Co-Op is more than just a market, they also have organic, vegan, and vegetarian offerings making this a great place to stop for a quick and healthy lunch. Osteria 5 offers a fun, contemporary spin on Italian dishes, where they serve fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas. The Greek grill serves up traditional Greek cuisine, using fresh ingredients. Great for a casual night out with friends!

Swarthmore College contributes to the cultural richness of the area. The college hosts art exhibitions, music performances, and lectures that are open to the public, offering a more intellectual and creative atmosphere.

Things to Do

With a mix of outdoor recreation, multiple cultural attractions, and various community events, you’ll always find something to do with family and friends. Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College has beautiful gardens to tour, where Crum Woods is home to scenic trails for hiking. Leiper Park, and Smedley Park are great locations to bring the whole family together, with their picnic areas and playgrounds. You’ll have to check out the farmers market where you can purchase local produce and artisan goods.