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5 Tips for the Summit Learning Application Process

Applications to bring the Summit Learning Program to your school for the 2018-19 school year are now open!

This school year more than 330 schools have implemented the Summit Learning Program, reaching more than 54,000 students across 40 states. Schools participating in the free Summit Learning Program receive 4-12th grade curriculum and assessments, professional development, access to the Summit Learning Platform and ongoing support.

If you’re considering applying but need some extra guidance, we’ve got some tips for you.

Tip #1: Learn More About The Program Requirements

The Summit Learning Program is open to school teams around the country interested in learning how to personalize their students’ education experience. Schools are asked to meet certain program requirements before acceptance. Requirements are both technical — a 1:1 computing program, for example — and instructional, such as adhering to Summit’s grading policy and project-based learning model.

As we’ve partnered with many schools, we’ve found that these program requirements set schools up for success with Summit. In Round 1 of the application, school leaders will be asked to share their vision for implementing these components into their school’s learning environment. If you have questions about specific program requirements, schedule a chat with our team or email applications@summitps.org.

Tip #2: Know Your Team

Teachers cannot apply to Summit Learning independently. To apply, schools need a grade-level team consisting of a school leader, teachers, and district or charter school network leader. Each member of the team plays a different role:

  • School Leader: Begins the application; supports teachers in learning about the program; writes essays to share vision and plan for implementation
  • Teachers: Writes essays to share instructional practices and vision for their classroom
  • District or Charter School Network Leader: Writes essay describing mission for personalized learning within district; supports entire team with implementation and overcoming obstacles

Tip #3: Know The Structure of the Application

There are two rounds of the Summit Learning application. Round 1 is completed by the school leader and and contains school profile questions. After Round 1, you will be assigned an application coach to support your team with the application process. They will reach out to offer support and schedule a call with the school leader and teacher team. Round 2 consists of essay questions for the School Leader, Teachers, and District/Charter lead. These questions help the Summit team learn more about your team and vision for implementation.

Tip #4: Utilize Your Application Coach

Once you start an application, your school team will be assigned an application coach to support you through the application process. Schedule a call or email your coach with any questions you have about the application or the Summit Learning Program. They are here to help! Your application coach can help you find resources, connect you with a school in the program, and create a personalized webinar to support your team.

Tip #5: Connect With Your Leadership Team at Your Organization

As part of the application, your team must include a district or charter school network leader. This individual is your Summit Learning champion and is on your team to help implementation run smoothly at your school and support you throughout the process. Over the last few years, we have seen the importance of including a district/charter leader in the change management process of bringing Summit Learning to a school. Start connecting with your leadership team before you apply. If you need help, reach out to your application coach, and they will support you in finding that perfect district/charter leader.

Need more information on the application process? Read more about program requirements, watch Summit Learning webinars or schedule a chat with our team. We look forward to helping you!

About the author

Christina Foust
Christina Foust is the Manager of New School Partnerships for Summit Learning. In this role, she creates experiences for educators to learn about Summit Learning and provides support for schools interested in partnering with the program. Christina was part of the founding faculty at Summit K2 where she taught 7th grade science. During her summers with Summit Public Schools, she worked as a curriculum developer, summer school principal, and supported teacher training for schools new to Summit Learning. Christina is passionate about building relationships with students and loves to discuss strategies to support mentorship. Prior to Summit, she taught 5th grade science in San Jose, CA.