Academics

Established in 1988, The Summit School is a state approved, diploma granting, special education alternative high school. While following New Hampshire Curriculum Frameworks, basic skills, content, and social skills are taught through experiential, hands-on opportunities.

Students must be of average intellectual ability and capable of performing in a small group setting. Summit recognizes the varying achievement levels of students and has created a learning environment that addresses individual needs while valuing personal responsibility and accountability.

Beyond the state requirements of English, Social Studies, Science, Math, Computers, Health, Physical Education, and Fine Arts, Summit offers an exciting array of elective classes including a strong Vocational Education component. Hands-on opportunities are provided in small engines, motorcycle repair, bicycle repair, building trades, woodworking, and production woodworking.

Adventure Based Counseling

The aim of Adventure Based Counseling is to foster cooperative relationships between staff and students that translate to increased success in the academic classroom. Group counseling at Summit School consists of a team of students and staff working together weekly throughout the school year to participate in adventure activities. There are also overnight expeditions in the Fall, Winter, and Spring. Students are exposed to adventure activities that may include rock climbing, backpacking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, snowshoeing, backcountry and alpine skiing, snowboarding, and ropes course elements. The activities are a conduit through which students develop self awareness, self-confidence, communication skills, social skills, and healthy coping strategies. Staff are trained to facilitate a physically and emotionally safe environment.

Faculty

The Summit School faculty are dedicated, caring professionals possessing skills and abilities beyond subject area certifications. Teachers and counselors have many years of experience in their specific disciplines and with the at-risk population. All staff are trained in Wilderness First Aid (SOLO) and Adventure Based Counseling (Project Adventure). Additionally, individuals hold the following advanced level trainings:

· EMT

· Briggs and Stratton Master Technician

· Masters in Community Counseling Psychology

· Masters of Arts in Expressive Therapy

· American Mountain Guides Association Top Rope Site Manager

· Master’s Level Teachers

Students

The Summit School serves students ages 14-21 who have identified emotional or behavioral disabilities. Summit also accepts younger students on a non-credit basis if they are appropriate for the program. Summit School accepts students who are aware of their issues and are able to respond to feedback and redirection. Summit students must be willing to participate fully in academic classes, individual counseling and group counseling.

Admissions

Interested students take part in an interview process which includes the student, family, and school district to determine if The Summit School is appropriate. The next step is a full-day school visit to assess academic, social, and emotional abilities to participate in The Summit School program. Students are then enrolled for a 45-day diagnostic period. Once accepted, a Summit School Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed. Applications are accepted year-round based on openings.

For more information about our

School Year or Summer Programs:

Phone: (603) 672-0001

Fax: (603) 732-4013

E-mail: summit@rsec.org