Summit Middle Charter School

An incredible school. I'm always amazed at how well Summit does at not only Science Fair and National History Day, but also in sports. Because of the small tight-nit relationship, you feel as if you're part of something really great. As many teachers say, "Summit is the small school with a big heart". There is so much I'd like to say about Summit, but honestly, I don't have any bad things to say, so I'll leave you with this: Summit is not only a life-changing school, but because of it's high achieving history, it isn't uncommon to hear kids say "oh, you know, it's cause we go to Summit"
--Submitted by a parent

Wonderful school, thanks to nearly all of the teachers. There are only a couple that I'm amazed are still there, especially because the teachers there are not unionized. [The principal is moving on within a year...] We hope to see some redirection of the few ineffective teachers, and more rewards to the utterly fantastic ones who are "hard", but highly respected by parents and alumni. My non-scientific extrovert felt the school was "too small" by the time graduation came (but appreciates it greatly in hindsight), but my science&math-loving introvert fit right in.
--Submitted by a parent

Our oldest started at Summit this year and has had a terrific experience. The teaching has been engaging and rigorous (but not too rigorous) and he's enjoyed the challenge of more and harder work.
--Submitted by a parent

I go to Summit now, and am a current 8th grader. Although the homework load is heavy (especially since I am taking the highest level of courses offered) and a bit stressful, Summit is a wonderful place. I have learned so much these past three years, I have made such wonderful friends, and have close bonds with my teachers. Summit prepares you amazingly for high school, and next year I, as well as almost every other Summit kid, will be taking advanced courses and will be way ahead of students from other schools. I disagree with the last comment, because all of the faculty and kids are very accepting to everyone. However, the sports teams aren't great, so I have played club soccer and basketball instead of on a school team. I also haven't been part of many clubs or activities, with the exception of National Junior Honor Society. Overall, this is a great school. I am very connected with my teachers, and all my fellow students.

If your kid is an introvert, this is not the school for them. The teachers and administrators tend to humiliate introverts, and they have have a poor and inconsistent track record of recording grades in a timely manner. Homework load is above average.
--Submitted by a parent

I feel so fortunate to have a school like Summit Middle School in Boulder and to have "won" the lottery by getting a coveted spot for my first child (and therefore my second) at this fabulous school. My children are thriving at Summit, are handling the work load and are becoming such interesting, engaged students thanks to the talent faculty and staff I think that my children are receiving a private school education from the cost of attending a public charter school. I cannot say enough about this school, the faculty and the opportunity. What a gem of a school!
--Submitted by a parent

I attended Summit for three years, from 05-08, and found it an excellent experience. It's a common sterotype that all Summit kids are nerdy, but that is not the case. Homework levels are heavier than at other middle schools, but many students take a study hall. I and all of my friends found the homework level quite managable, even for students involved in extracurricular activites. (I was in NJHS, Net Zero CLub, Spansih Club, and on the track team.) I disagree with the assessment of a parent that 'If a kid isn't doing well, the staff is quick to suggest that kid go elsewhere. If a kid isn't doing well, the staff is quick to suggest that kid go elsewhere.' All Summit teachers offer tutoring at lest once a week for struggling students, and there are special math and English labs offered once a week for anyone who wants one-on-one help.
--Submitted by a student

I am an 7th Grade student that goes to Summit, and let me tell you, this will be my last year here. All of the kids are nerdy, and since I don't spend all of my waking moments studying, the other kids make me the outcast. Also, The homework amount assigned is more akin to college level, and it is rediculous. Shouldn't some focus be given to extracurricular activities?
--Submitted by a student

The teachers at Summit Middle School are all dedicated to providing as high a quality education to the kids as possible. The homework load does get to be extremely demanding, however the in class work time is exceptional. This school is a refreshing haven for students that thrive on a great deal of academic challenge, but can be a major strain on students that aren't as academically oriented. The students at Summit are somewhat sheltered from some of the negative behaviors that can plague other middle schools. I wouldn't say that they're naive about what students in other schools may be exposed to, but they aren't bombarded with exposure to it themselves.
--Submitted by a parent

This school challenges your student! It is an excellent prep for high school and beyond with its rigorous academics. Parents are highly involved as well.
--Submitted by a parent