A celebratory tone set the stage for the August 5-6 District Leadership Team (DLT) meeting in Columbus. CEO John Guyer noted the historic significance of Summit Academy’s establishment in June 1998. He explained that when Summit
Academy Akron Elementary School opened at that time, it was among Ohio’s first community schools.
Guyer praised the SAM administrative team collectively for their contributions to Summit Academy’s longevity and noted employees with the longest tenure. At the top of the list was Laura Verdoorn, Director of Federal Programs, who reached her 25-year anniversary on August 2. Verdoorn expressed her gratitude to her colleagues for their loyalty to Summit Academy’s mission and support through the years.
During his opening remarks, Guyer extended his gratitude to Steve Geresy for his leadership and support of multitudes of students, families and staff members over the years. The devoted, longtime principal for Summit Academy Transition High School – Cincinnati will retire next month. In addition to a commemorative crystal plaque, the avid fisherman received a tackle box, fishing pole and bucket hat for a playful sendoff. Guyer also congratulated staff members promoted to new positions including Alexandra Morris, Director, Summit Academy Community School – Parma; Jenette Mulholland, K-12 Director, Summit Academy Schools – Cincinnati; Sara Schmidt, Assistant Director, Summit Academy Transition High School – Dayton; Heather Singer, Superintendent; and Rebeca Tyner, Assistant
Superintendent. Visit the Summit Academy home page and scroll under “Latest News” for related current and upcoming staff stories.
Along with work and general sessions and professional development workshops, attendees enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with each other professionally and personally, share memories and sentiments, and take pictures in the 25th anniversary-themed photo booth