After serving as the assistant principal of Summit Academy Community School for Alternative Learners – Canton last year, Sarah Kwasnicka has been named as the school principal.
Kwasnicka says her plans for the 2025-2026 school year include continuing to foster a strong school culture, building effective and enduring relationships, setting high expectations and engaging families and community members.
“My greatest hope is that every student feels seen, valued and empowered to reach their full potential. I want students to leave our school prepared for high school and beyond, but I also want them to leave with confidence, resilience and the belief that they can make a positive difference in the world,” Kwasnicka says.
As the school’s assistant principal in 2024-2025, Kwasnicka was involved in instructional operational aspects of school leadership. During that period, she says she was able to develop meaningful relationships with staff, students and families.
“I learned how to lead through building trust, fostering collaboration and making data-driven decisions. These experiences prepared me to take on leadership as principal, where I am able to ensure all students and staff succeed,” she says.
Kwasnicka joined Summit Academy four years ago as a data coach at both the Canton elementary/middle and secondary schools. She is a cum laude graduate of Ohio University with a Bachelor of Science (Early Education). Kwasnicka later earned a K-12 Reading Endorsement from Walsh University.
Describing her school community as a cohesive one with a shared objective, Kwasnicka says, “We all work together to help each child succeed academically, socially and emotionally. We are a family, and our school is a place where students and families feel safe.”
Located at 1620 Market Avenue S., Summit Academy Community School for Alternative Learners – Canton provides special education to students in grades K-8.