Social work and education meld together seamlessly and successfully at Summit Academy Schools, where meeting students’ social and emotional needs is of utmost importance. Summit Academy’s licensed social workers, who serve primarily as behavior specialists, are a” lifeline for many students, offering them a safe space, a listening ear and the guidance they need when they may have no one else to turn to,” says Executive Director of Special Education Erica Richley-Duda.
Driven with compassion and a selfless desire to help others, these humble heroes have a direct and positive impact on students and their families, as their advocates and navigators to resources they need.
This March, Social Work Month, we celebrate these shining stars. As Richley-Duda puts it, “We know your job is not easy, but your impact is immeasurable. Your kindness, resilience and commitment to making a difference do not go unnoticed. We are grateful to you today, and every day.”
Meet Summit Academy’s social workers stars!
Stephanie Barnes, BSW, LSW
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy Akron Middle School
Why did you choose your profession?
I got into social work because I wanted to make a difference in other people’s lives in a positive way. I want to help empower others rather than enable them.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The most rewarding aspect is the appreciation you get from the kids. Some kids I have helped more than others and I know for some I have changed their life for the better.
Jaime Curtis BSW, LSW
Behavior Specialist/Performance Coach
Summit Academy – Toledo
Why did you choose your profession?
I was called to it, from an early age. I always sought out diversity, eager to meet people with different backgrounds, culture and perspectives. Throughout my public education, I learned about social injustice, human rights violations, oppression of marginalized populations and the impact these issues have on culture and society. Learning about these important issues also caused me to reflect on just how lucky and privileged I am to be born a white woman in the United States of America to a middle-class family with two healthy parents. I chose to be a social worker to give back to others who are not so fortunate, to serve the underrepresented, the marginalized, the oppressed, the differently abled, and all humans who may otherwise be invisible.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Making connections with others, helping them see their strengths and potential.
Laurie Dunning MSW, LISW
Community Resource Coordinator, Acting Administrative Assistant, Behavior Specialist, Dean of Students, Jack of all Trades
Summit Academy Community School – Cincinnati
Why did you choose your profession?
I wanted to advocate for the unseen children and ensure that they received all the resources available.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The relationships I’ve built with not just the students, but their families.
Jonathan Hearn
Bachelors and Masters in Social Work
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy Akron Elementary School
Why did you choose your profession?
To make a difference in kids’ lives, and to be that person that they might need to listen to them because they might not have anyone else.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Watching the growth and development of the children as the year goes on.
Tiffany Newman, BSSW/LSW
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy Community School for Alternative Learners – Middletown
The most satisfying aspect of my job is watching students grow and progress in academic, social and communication skills as well as being able to see past Summit students be successful in their young adult lives by furthering their education to getting jobs and starting families. Being close and connected with the students, families and our community is also a very satisfying part of my job.
What attracted me to my profession is wanting to help others in all my years as a social worker. I have always wanted to help others. Supporting others through both difficult and exciting times in their lives is all I have ever wanted to do.
Rebecca St. Clair, MSW, LSW
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy Columbus K-12
Why did you choose your profession?
The simplest answer … is that I want to help people. I became a social worker because I have a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of adolescents and their families.
What I wanted to do the most as a social worker was to build trust with young people while supporting them through their personal journeys including the good and the tough. I’m passionate about helping them meet their goals, grow into stronger individuals and be there for them when they need it the most.
My biggest “why” includes the hope of being the kind of support for my students that I needed when I was younger; someone who listens, understands and helps guide them through the tough moments.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
The ability to offer that kind of guidance and be a source of support during critical moments in their lives is incredibly fulfilling. Becoming a social worker allows me to make a real difference and what keeps me inspired every day.
Aaron Saez, LISW, MSW
Behavioral Health
Summit Academy Community School – Warren Elementary
Why did you choose your profession?
I have always wanted to give back where I felt that I may have the most impact.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Being able to show that there are positive role models for children that are men, real humans, not superheroes or some untouchable or unreachable imaginary person.
Katie Thompson, LSW, MSW
Performance Coach
Summit Academy Secondary School – Middletown
Why did you choose your profession?
I chose social work because I always knew I wanted to help people. Being a social work is one of the most difficult but most rewarding careers.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Honestly, working with the students. They bring so much joy to me. Watching them accomplish any of their goals, especially a major goal, like graduating, really makes the difficult days worth it. I am very passionate about getting students to graduation as well as helping them achieve their dreams and goals, even after high school.
Maria Winbush, MSW, LSW
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy – Warren Middle and Secondary
Why did you choose your profession?
I chose this profession because it is very meaningful and fulfilling, as it allows me to make a positive impact on people’s lives, as well as help people overcome challenges.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work? I enjoy watching the social and emotional development of our students as they grow into young adults.
Summit Academy salutes all of its outstanding social workers, including those mentioned above as well as Ashley Harley (Cincinnati THS), Erica Kiphart (Middletown), Shanna Martin (Canton Elementary) and Tavia Pearson (Akron Secondary and Canton Secondary).