The Southern Cayuga Central School District is located at 2384 Route 34B Aurora, NY. The school district is nestled on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake, in the heart of the Finger Lakes region of New York State, and provides education for grades PK-12th. Aurora has been known as an educational center since the 1790's when its first school was built. The Southern Cayuga Central School District believes in educating the whole student, first by stimulating the student academically and then by offering a number of common experiences designed to develop the social, emotional, physical and ethical development of the individual.

Students interested in astronomy are very fortunate, because the Southern Cayuga Central School's goal is to become a regional center of excellence in astronomy education. In 2004, SCCS obtained a three year grant from NASA, as an Education and Public Outreach component of a larger NASA research grant to Cornell University. This grant enables SCCS to develop enhanced programs in the field of astronomy education. For Amateur Astronomers that have helped with construction, public events, and their advice to school staff, area amateur astronomers will have direct access to a substantial observatory with full support equipment.

Southern Cayuga Central School District desires students to be safe, engaging environment that values all members of the community and encourages them to pursue their full potential as life-long learners and respectful citizens. Every effort to incorporate literacy learning in all areas of learning: social studies, science, math, health, physical education, and the arts.