Our School
Established in 1963, Summit School has been on the forefront of special needs education in Canada.
Our School
With sixty years of an unparalleled commitment to excellence in special education, Summit has become a recognized leader in the field. Our nearly 700 students have a wide array of diagnoses: autism, down syndrome, fragile X, general and pervasive developmental disorders, and they hail from every cultural and socio-economic background. Summit operates three campuses and employs over 240 staff members. Our low-ratio classes and interdisciplinary team meet each student where they are at, and help them to become confident members of their community with as much independence as possible. Summit is a private school in the public interest and as such, does not charge tuition. The Ministry provides funding for core services, but so many of our important programs (technology initiatives, the performing arts, our job program, etc) rely on donation and community partners.
We Promote:
Well Being
An Interdisciplinary Approach
A Sense of Belonging
Our History
The story of Summit School began in 1963 (the same year the Beatles released their first album!) At that time, four sets of parents whose children had Down Syndrome decided that a "school" needed to be created to serve their needs. It began as a summer camp, and the next year, Soryl Rosenberg, was hired as the first official teacher and the camp turned into a school. It started with six students, and each year became a little bit bigger. In 1971, with an enrollment of 42, Gloria Cherney was hired to be the principal. Under Gloria’s direction the school grew and developed its student-first educational approach. Gloria served as principal for forty-two years.
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In 2013, Herman Erdogmus became the school's Director General. He has continued to oversee the growth of the school while maintaining its student-first philosophy. During his tenure, Summit's focus on unique and innovative teaching methods has led to the establishment of the school's Performing Arts Department, Research Centre and thriving learn-to-work businesses.
Independence
Respect
A Holistic Approach
Family Engagement
Our Mission
We dedicate ourselves to providing a supportive environment that meets each student’s needs and fosters learning, personal growth, well-being and independence. In this way, we can ensure that our students begin their adult journey as engaged members of their community, equipped with the confidence and skills they need to lead a fulfilling life.
