The Summit School

Amidst the bustling energy of Queens, discover The Summit School. This isn’t just any school. The Summit School is a unique institution dedicated to nurturing bright minds with learning differences. Founded in 1968 by Hershel Stiskin, The Summit School began as a charter school catering to children with various special needs. The school operates two sites near St. John’s University. The Lower School, for elementary and middle school students, is located at the Hillcrest Jewish Center in Utopia. The Upper School, serving high school students, is nestled in Jamaica Estates. Unlike most private schools, The Summit School is tuition-free and welcomes students from all five boroughs of New York City. Students also come from Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk counties. The Summit School has earned a reputation as a prestigious institution for students with learning disabilities. The admission process is highly competitive for both students and faculty. In 2003, The Summit School received over 1,000 applications for just 35 available spots, highlighting its sought-after status. The Summit School caters to students in grades 3-12 who possess average to above-average IQs but face mild learning disabilities. These may include ADHD, high-functioning autism, dyslexia, or Tourette syndrome. The school boasts a faculty of 150 professionals. They maintain a student-to-teacher-assistant-to-special-education-teacher ratio of 12 to 1.5 to 1. A team of social workers, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, reading specialists, and one-on-one aides provides additional support. The Summit School’s approach focuses on the academic, social, emotional, and pre-vocational development of each child. Support is provided in the classroom, as well as in individual and small group settings. The school carefully considers various factors when assigning students to classes. These include age, IQ range, language skills, management needs, academic levels, prior friendships, and personality traits. High school students at The Summit School participate in a unique work-based learning program. They intern at local businesses. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors work one morning per week with support from job coaches. Seniors choose their placements, travel independently, and work a full day on Fridays. Beyond academics, The Summit School offers a vibrant student life. There’s a student government and numerous extracurricular activities. These include after-school enrichment programs, band, fine art, and a basketball team. The school also hosts career assemblies and evening workshops for parents led by guest lecturers. The Summit School even has its own newspaper, The Summit Sun. Published every other Friday, this student-run publication covers school activities, sports, current events, and opinion pieces. The Summit School is more than just a school. It’s a community where students with learning differences can thrive, discover their potential, and prepare for a bright future.