DEPARTMENT OF ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION VISITS SUMMIT ACADEMY

On April 12, 14 and 16, representatives from the State Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) visited Summit Academy to conduct the triennial Mid- Cycle Review of Summit’s Policies and Practices. DESE is required to conduct onsite visits to all public and private schools and districts every three years.

Because of the pandemic, this year’s review was changed to a virtual Zoom visit. This visit included a live, very detailed virtual tour of the building using a Logitech Connect camera, computer, and a rolling cart. We were required to show the visitors every space that students utilize in the building, including bathrooms! The tour also included a verbal narrative as we toured the building that described the space we were in and what it was used for relative to student education. In addition to the tour, DESE team members reviewed six student records and did two classroom observations. They also interviewed eight Summit staff members.

I am thrilled to report that the DESE team had NO NEGATIVE FINDINGS to report, with all required criteria being met. Our records were perfect, and the tour and classroom observations highlighted the school’s excellent programs. The DESE team noted the high level of engagement that our teachers had with the students, whether the students were online or in person, and were impressed with the different methodologies used to help students stay involved with lessons. The team especially pointed out the dedication and care our staff have for our students. It is commendable that despite the challenges of the pandemic, our teachers and staff have continued to have high expectations for students and for themselves.

I am proud to be working with such a dedicated team of professionals who join together every day to achieve the best for each student. Thank you to all the staff for their efforts and cooperation before and during the visit, and to all our students for their flexibility and patience during the tour and classroom observations.

Kathleen Buchanan

Program Manager