Traditions and Innovations

Summit's commitment to providing a fertile learning environment in which the multiple intelligences of every child are engaged through active learning has led to the creation of many special and innovative programs our students look forward to each year. Among these Summit traditions are:

Pilgrim Unit- Junior Kindergartners take on the roles of the passengers on Mayflower. Maps, stories, props, and costumes bring this experience to life. A Thanksgiving Feast, prepared by the children using ingredients and recipes representing both Wampanoag and Pilgrim cookery, crowns this study.

Big Friends/Little Friends Mentoring Program- Each kindergartner is matched with a fifth grade student to foster friendship and learn about the importance of responsibility in relationships. Students meet throughout the year to share in activities that are both educational and fun. The program continues as the students progress through the School.

Famous Americans Day- Culminating their research into the men and women who shaped our nation, first graders dress as famous Americans, parade through the school, and make presentations to their classes.

Native American Day- Second graders travel off-campus for a day immersed in Native American culture, crafts, and activities. They participate in a variety of activities including basket-weaving and corn grinding. The day culminates in a grand tribal circle.

Pioneer Day- Third graders experience pioneer life at a farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Parents and teachers help students make soap and candles, prepare food, and learn first-hand about the challenges of life on the frontier.

Living Biographies- Fourth graders cap their biographical studies by taking on the persona of the subject of their research. Parents are invited to see costumed students make a presentation in the theatre.

Exchange and Enrichment Trips- Fifth graders have the option of traveling to another school for a week. Exchange trips led by Summit faculty have traveled to Oregon, Nebraska, and Toronto in recent years. Students from other schools come to visit Summit and learn about life in North Carolina.

Camping Trips- Sixth graders go on a camping trip to begin the year and push themselves outside their comfort zones through a variety of challenging activities. At the end of the year they return to discover how much their teamwork skills have improved.

Medieval Feast- Seventh graders end their cross-curricular study of the Medieval period with a sumptuous feast. Students present skits about Arthur and his knights, prepare the seven-course meal, and provide entertainment.

Carter Vocational Concert- Eighth graders work together with developmentally disabled students from Carter Vocational School to rehearse and perform a musical program. Along the way, Summit students develop strong bonds with these special friends.

Camp High Rocks and Beyond- Summit's ninth grade could be called a year-long special program. Students kick off the year with leadership training at Camp High Rocks, deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and culminate their Summit years with a trip to Washington, DC.