Summit Educational Association

“Of the dozens of after-school programs, why is Summit so special?” Very simply, here are the ingredients that set us apart:

Structured approach - We do not match a volunteer with a student and then send them out to sink or swim. From the the tutor training and support, to the weekly tutoring schedule, character development talks and goal setting exercises, meetings with the parents, and the sports and fun outings, we support tutors so they can help their student improve most effectively and foster a vision so they set out on a track to go to college at an early age.

Parents - We work with parents. Because parents are the primary educators of the family, gains made at Summit will only be short term if the parents, themselves, do not place a high value on education and character. In order that parents have a better understanding of how to help their child, we make monthly presentations and their child’s tutor meets with them to brainstorm about helping their child.

Excitement - We make sure the kids have a lot of fun. One of the mentors’ goals is to have a great time with their students, during both study and play. Because academic and personal improvement involves not only the intellect, but also the will, students need to be motivated to improve.

Camaraderie - Friendship is essential because trust motivates, advice is taken seriously, and good attitudes are formed as a result. What is most attractive to our students are the friends they make here: their peers, tutors and program directors all know their names and try to ensure everyone has a good time.

Individual goals - We promote academic and character development in a practical way; it is not theoretical. Each tutoring session includes a short class and discussion of a virtue. This is followed by setting daily goals for the following week to help students acquire good habits and provide a focus for the week ahead. Incentives, friendship and accountability help the tutor make sure that progress is being made.

Activities - We aim to develop kids socially, and culturally as well as intellectually. Summit is not just a “homework help” program. Our students look forward to the many fun activities, such as sports, arts and field trips.

Learning - We use the Socratic Method (asking good questions and getting the student to talk, rather than simply giving answers) to best ascertain their level of understanding and helping them improve, both in academics and character. The student may otherwise become overwhelmed or bored. Active learning helps students retain newly learned information and behaviors. For our tutors, comprehensive initial and ongoing training helps us attract volunteers.

So, you see, Summit is SPECIAL. Spread the word!

Matt Smyczek
Executive Director