Social Work Month delivers cause for celebration at Summit Academy! Our organization’s social workers “bring a unique blend of compassion, dedication and creativity to our schools,” says Erica Richley-Duda, MSEd, LPCC-S, CCTP, Executive Director of Special Education.
“They take the time to truly know each student, not just their academic needs, but their personal stories, strengths and challenges,” explains Richley-Duda, describing their work as relationship-centered and grounded in genuine care.
Going above and beyond with daily check-ins, proactive communication and individualized supports tailored for each student is the norm for Summit Academy’s social workers. They connect families to needed resources, collaborate with staff and design creative interventions to fit students’ individual needs.
“They approach their role with flexibility and persistence. Most importantly, they serve as steady, trusted adults in students’ lives. Their advocacy, empathy and commitment help students feel seen, supported and capable of growth,” says Richley-Duda. “The impact of their work extends beyond immediate concerns — it builds resilience, confidence, and a stronger school community.”
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I am incredibly proud of this team and the heart they bring to their work each day. Their integrity, professionalism and unwavering commitment to doing what is best for students are evident in every decision they make. Students are always at the center of their efforts, and that shared purpose guides their collaboration, advocacy and persistence. I am deeply grateful to work alongside individuals of such strong character and compassion. It is a privilege to work with this group of professionals that not only supports students with skill and expertise, but does so with empathy, authenticity and genuine care. – Erica Richley-Duda, Executive Director of Special Education Services, Summit Academy Management.
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Meet Summit Academy star social workers …
Stephanie Barnes, LSW
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy Akron Middle School
What attracted you to your profession?
What attracted me most to the profession was having the opportunity to help others and to make a difference. I wanted to empower others to overcome the obstacles in their lives. I have always been passionate about working with children and helping them be successful.
What is the most gratifying aspect of your work for Summit Academy?
The most gratifying aspect of working at Summit Academy is watching the students grow so much over the course of three years. We have conversations and try to help guide all our students. It’s exciting to see them make positive changes from 6th to 8th grade.
Kassie M. Gooden, LSW
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy Secondary School – Akron
Summit Academy Secondary School – Canton
What attracted you to your profession?
I was attracted to this profession because growing up there was a need for mental health service providers in my community, the inner city of Canton. I felt it was only right to become what I needed in order to help the future generation lead successful lives.
What is the most gratifying aspect of your work for Summit Academy?
The most gratifying aspect of work at Summit Academy is witnessing transformation, I have seen the kiddos use the skills and tools we teach them to improve their overall functioning and mental well-being. There is no better feeling!
Vilmary Kausits, MSABA, MSW, LISW
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy – Youngstown
What is the most gratifying aspect of your work for Summit Academy?
The most gratifying aspect of my work for Summit Academy is seeing the progress in the students that I work with. I love the relationships that I have been able to form with the students and being part of their growth.
Tiffany Newman, LSW
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy Middletown Elementary
What attracted you to your profession?
What attracted me most 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.
What is the most gratifying aspect of your work for Summit Academy?
The most gratifying aspect of my job at Summit Academy is watching students grow and progress in academic, social and communication skills as well as being able to see past Summit. Students can be successful in their young adult lives by furthering their education, 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.
Rebecca St. Clair, MSW, LSW
Behavior Specialist
Summit Academy – Columbus K-12
What attracted you to your profession?
What attracted me the most to the profession was the opportunity to be a support system for youth during their time of need. Social work allows me to advocate for others, empower individuals and families, and help create systems that are more compassionate and equitable.
What is the most gratifying aspect of your work for Summit Academy?
The best part of my job at Summit Academy is being able to celebrate the success and growth with the students. Working with students allows me to build meaningful relationships and create a safe space where children feel heard and supported. I love being able to encourage them, help them overcome challenges and witness the progress they make throughout the year.
Katie Thompson- Adkins, MSW, LSW
Assistant Principal
Summit Academy School – Middletown
What is the most gratifying aspect of your work for Summit Academy?
The most gratifying aspect of working for Summit Academy is being part of each student’s journey toward graduation and watching them realize their own potential along the way. Supporting students as they work through challenges—academically, emotionally, and socially—and helping them develop healthy coping and self-regulation skills – is incredibly meaningful to me.
It is especially rewarding to see students build confidence not just in the classroom, but in every area of their lives. Knowing that I’ve played a role in helping them believe in themselves, persevere through obstacles, and reach milestones they once thought were out of reach makes this work deeply fulfilling.
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During Social Work Month and always, thank you Stephanie Barnes, Antwanette Brown, Kassie Gooden, Ashley Harley, Jonathan Hearn, Vilmary Kausits, Erica Kiphart, Shanna Martin, Eliyah McKinney, Alisa McRoberts, Tiffany Newman, Katie Sittinger, Rebecca St. Clair, Katie Thompson- Adkins and Maria Winbush.