Summit School admissions.
Your path to Summit starts here.
Choosing a school is a big decision. The Summit School admissions process is designed to help you get to know Summit while giving us the opportunity to learn about your child, your family, and what you are looking for in a school.
From your first conversation through enrollment, our admissions team is here to make the process clear, personal, and welcoming.
Finding the right fit.
Admissions is about more than an application.
At Summit, admissions is a two-way process. Families are getting to know our school, and we are getting to know each student.
We look beyond a single test score or report card to understand the whole child: their academic experience, strengths, needs, interests, and how they may grow within the Summit community.
Our goal is to make sure Summit can provide an environment where each student can be appropriately challenged, supported, known, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
Admissions and enrollment timeline.
Important dates for the 2027–28 school year.
Families are encouraged to begin the admissions process early. Because Summit intentionally maintains small class sizes, availability varies by grade.
October 1, 2026
Applications open
Applications for the 2027–28 school year become available.
February 1, 2027
Open enrollment Begins
Available spaces open to new students on a first-come, first-served basis.
Enrollment priority
Before open enrollment begins, enrollment priority is given in the following order:
1. Current Summit Students
Current students are guaranteed a place for the upcoming school year when enrollment is completed by January 31.
2. Siblings of Enrolled Students
Siblings of students enrolled for the upcoming school year receive priority for available spaces through January 31.
3. New Students
New applicants are considered for available spaces in timestamp order. Students must complete the admissions process and receive an offer of enrollment before they can enroll.
Beginning February 1, enrollment is first come, first served. An application does not reserve a space. New students must complete the admissions process, receive an offer of enrollment, and finalize enrollment to secure an available space.
The admissions journey.
What to expect.
Every family's journey is a little different, but most students move through these seven steps.
1
Inquiry & Connection
Every Summit journey begins with a conversation. Reach out to our admissions team to ask questions, learn more about the school, and tell us a little about your child and what you are looking for.
2
Campus tour & family meeting
Visit Summit to experience our campus, classrooms, and community firsthand. You’ll meet with a member of our admissions team, learn more about our programs, and have plenty of time to ask questions.
3
Application submission
When you’re ready to move forward, complete an application for your child. The application helps us begin building a fuller picture of your child’s educational experience and needs.
A $100 non-refundable application fee is due when the application is submitted.
4
Student assessment &
shadow day
Depending on age and grade level, applicants may participate in an assessment, classroom visit, shadow day, or a combination of these experiences.
This helps us understand how your child learns, interacts, and approaches new challenges.
5
Admissions review
Our admissions team considers the information gathered throughout the process, including school records, recommendations, assessments, observations, and the student’s visit.
We look at the whole child and whether Summit can appropriately support their needs.
6
Enrollment decision
Once the review is complete, families receive an enrollment decision and next steps.
Outcomes may include full acceptance, a conditional offer of enrollment, placement in the wait pool, or non-acceptance.
7
Enrollment confirmation
Once an offer is accepted and enrollment requirements are completed, your child’s place at Summit is confirmed. Then the exciting part begins: preparing to become part of the Summit community.
Preparing to apply.
What you’ll need.
Application requirements vary somewhat by grade level, but gathering a few items in advance can help make the process easier.
Our admissions team will let you know exactly what is required for your child.
Application materials may include:
Completed student application
$100 non-refundable application fee
Previous school records
Teacher recommendation(s)
Student questionnaire or reflection, when applicable
Assessment and/or student visit
Summit generally requests at least two years of previous school records.
Teacher recommendations: Preschool through Grade 5 applicants provide one teacher recommendation. Middle School applicants provide two recommendations, one from a math teacher and one from an English language arts teacher.
Early childhood and kindergarten.
Age requirements.
Preschool
Children must be 3 years old by September 1 and fully bathroom trained.
Pre-K
Children must be 4 years old by September 1 and fully bathroom trained.
Kindergarten
Children must be 5 years old before September 1.
Have a question about your child’s eligibility or placement? Our admissions team is happy to help.
Experience Summit.
A chance for your child to experience the school, too.
Parents aren’t the only ones choosing a school. We want students to have an opportunity to experience Summit for themselves.
Depending on grade level, applicants may spend time in a classroom, participate in a shadow day, complete an assessment, or meet with members of our faculty and admissions team.
These experiences help us understand how a child learns, communicates, interacts with peers, responds to challenge, and what they may need to thrive.
They also give students a chance to picture themselves at Summit.
A thoughtful review.
We look at the whole child.
There is no single score, grade, or characteristic that determines whether a student is a good fit for Summit.
Our admissions team considers the complete picture developed throughout the admissions process.
Academic readiness
We consider a student’s previous academic experience, current skills, areas of strength, and opportunities for growth.
Learning and support needs
We consider whether Summit’s program, classroom environment, and available resources can appropriately support the student.
Community fit
We consider how the student and family may engage with a school community built around relationships, kindness, accountability, engagement, and shared responsibility.
Next steps.
Admissions decisions.
Following the admissions review, families will receive one of the following decisions.
Full acceptance
An offer to enroll at Summit and begin the enrollment process.
Conditional offer of enrollment
An offer of enrollment that includes clearly defined expectations or supports designed to help the student succeed.
Wait pool
The student may be a good fit for Summit, but appropriate space is not currently available.
Non-acceptance
When we determine that Summit is not able to appropriately meet a student’s needs, our admissions team will communicate that decision with the family.
Plan ahead.
Understand tuition and affordability.
As you consider Summit, explore current tuition, fees, payment options, and financial assistance information so you can understand the full investment before making your enrollment decision.
Summit gave me a safe space to learn and grow into the person I am now. I first latched onto the idea of living in New York and working in the Arts while I was at Summit and I don’t know if I would have actually made it to NYC without the support of Summit’s amazing teachers, who gave me the confidence in my academics and my ambitions that I needed to make it happen.
I’ll never be able to thank them enough for their trust, their guidance, and their friendship! After Summit I went on to Xavier College Preparatory High School and American University in Washington, DC. I’m now living in New York, working at a non-profit theatre company that produces work on and off-Broadway.
-Summit Alumni
Our daughter just completed her third year at Summit School, after transferring from another school. She is absolutely thriving. She is excited about telling me about her day when she jumps in the car at pick up. She blows kisses at the school when we drive by. She is deeply engaged in her homework and project assignments – many of which require her focus, creativity and humor. She has been getting straight A’s along with several A+’s since she began attending Summit .
As one of her teachers noted, she is one of the most driven students she has ever worked with. Our daughter is now in an environment that is able to foster her intelligence, creativity and drive. During her time at Summit our daughter has regained her confidence, her excitement toward learning, and her drive to excel. Summit has given us back our child.
-Summit Parent
As a former Kindergarten teacher and now a Full-Time faculty and Administrator in Higher Education, I was very “picky” in looking for a school to send my children to. From the moment I toured Summit School, I was impressed. The classrooms are rich with resources; the teachers are caring and committed to educating the students. Our oldest son attended preschool this year and we have been amazed by all of the wonderful things he has learned and experienced.
Next year, he will be attending Kindergarten and we are so excited for his experience at Summit to continue, as well as our second son’s experience at Preschool to begin. I highly recommend Summit School to anyone looking for an all around quality education plus so much more!
-Summit Parent
The amount of individual attention students receive is amazing. All teachers know all students as a whole person, not just a side that they show in a particular subject area. Middle school teachers are very aware of where each student is in terms of their academic achievement and readiness and willing to spend working with them during break or before/after school to ensure that students are appropriately challenged.
It is our 7th year at Summit and I am confident that our daughter is receiving education that no other school in the area offers.We are extremely impressed and overjoyed with Summit School of Ahwatukee!
-Summit Parent
My wife and I are both educators and we both know a quality educational institution when we see one. Summit School has exceeded all of our expectations and we firmly believe that it is the finest educational institution in the state. From teachers who truly get to know our children and offer an individualized and student-centered curriculum, to an environment of safety and support, we truly appreciate every part of the Summit educational experience.
I am familiar with the research on brain development and during these critical, formative years, we are extremely fortunate to have our sons in an education environment that encourages their curiosity and creativity. We are grateful to Summit for helping pave the way to a bright future for our children. Summit School is an educational haven and an island of individualized education in a sea of standardization. Our sons come home from school each day energized and enthusiastic and that is truly a gift.
-Summit Parent
Having worked for the last 10 years in Arizona as a teacher, I feel that I can fairly judge the merits of an educational program and I feel Summit is top notch. We have been nothing but impressed by Summit’s small student-to-teacher ratio, the genuine caring and support of the teachers, and an academic program that challenges children to learn new things while still building their self-esteem. Our son has grown in leaps and bounds this year and the great program at Summit is a huge part of that growth.
My wife and I genuinely believe that an investment in the education of children will pay dividends throughout their lives which is why I am pleased to give my highest possible recommendation on behalf of the school.
-Summit Parent
Three boys who have learned self responsibility for their own education. Two boys tried elsewhere and admit they do much better academically at Summit. Teachers are personable and know each child! Students learn how to communicate with teachers to ensure success! Small class sizes are key! LOVE SUMMIT!
-Summit Parent
This special learning community is a rare find in schools today. The supportive “family” atmosphere is wonderful for our children, and every day they are challenged to do their very best. Small class sizes, excellent teachers, special classes, and emphasis on developing citizens of high character are just a few of the things that make this a top-notch school!
-Summit Parent
My two younger children have been at Summit for two and a half years, and I regret that my oldest child never had the opportunity. What a great school! The Elementary curriculum provides students with a rock solid foundation in an innovative, challenging, yet, fun environment. The Middle School, then builds upon that foundation to create lifelong learners who are well prepared for High School, College and beyond.
The Teachers and Administrators are exceptional! They are invested in the students and the Summit community. My children feel respected, valued and truly C.A.R.E.d about.
-Summit Parent
The search for the perfect school was a difficult and arduous process. I looked at 10 different schools in the area, all of which were good but not great. Each school presented itself with its own distinguishing characteristics but fell short in providing the perfect combination of academic excellence and character building. Summit exceeds my expectations in every regard. The academics are outstanding and are presented to the kids in a way that is engaging and inspires a lifelong love of learning.
The staff is excellent, from the administration, to the teachers and even the cleaning staff. The parent/family community is incredibly supportive and feels more like an extended family than people we simply know because they attend the same school as our kids. We have a child in kindergarten and preschool and are so happy we found the perfect place for them to grow, thrive, be happy and excel.
-Summit Parent
What our son has learned in just a short month is proof in the pudding as to how stellar their curriculum is. Last year my son went to Kyrene Public School and would continually tell me how bored he was every week with school. When my son started this year at Summit School he said “Daddy, I love my new school and I’m not bored’.
When you are here, you feel like this school is truly part of your family. I was also impressed with the lower number of students to teacher ratio in the classes at Summit. I also like the philosophy at Summit that there is no ceiling towards learning for each student which enables the students to achieve anything they want to which you will be hard pressed to witness at Kyrene Elementary Public School.
I also enjoy seeing the respect that each student has for each other at Summit which is refreshing to see. You can physically feel the joy of students, teachers, and parents. This truly is a gift to my child and will set him up for future success.
-Summit Parent
Summit School is a great school. We have 3 kids at the school, 1 in middle school and 2 in elementary. We have been a part of the Summit community and family for 2 years now. I call it a community and family because it is just that… from the students and their parents, to the teachers, to the staff. Summit really brings out the best in it’s students. The challenge the kids to do their best, to be creative and to enjoy the learning experience.
Our kids transferred from public schools and we have seen them grow tremendously in their academics, the attitudes towards school and in their character qualities. We would highly recommend Summit School for any family that is looking for an inspiring culture that has great teachers and a welcoming and inclusive student body. It has been the best investment that our family has and could have made for our kids and for their future success.
-Summit Parent
Accredited for Excellence.
National Early Learning Accreditation
Global School Accreditation
Arizona Quality-Rated Program
Admissions FAQ.
Questions about applying to Summit.
When should I apply to Summit School?
Applications for the upcoming school year open October 1. Families are encouraged to begin early because availability varies by grade and some classes may reach capacity.
Do we need to tour before applying?
A campus tour is strongly encouraged because it gives families the opportunity to experience Summit, meet our admissions team, and determine whether the school feels like the right fit before moving further into the admissions process.
Is there an application fee?
Yes. A $100 non-refundable application fee is submitted with the application.
Does submitting an application reserve a space?
No. An application begins the admissions process but does not reserve a space. Students must complete the admissions process, receive an offer of enrollment, and complete enrollment to secure an available space.
Does every student complete an assessment?
Assessment and visit requirements vary by age and grade level. The admissions team will explain what is required for your child during the application process.
What happens during a shadow day?
A shadow day allows a prospective student to experience Summit, spend time with future peers and teachers, and become familiar with the school environment. It also gives Summit educators an opportunity to get to know the student.
What records does Summit require?
Summit generally requests at least two years of previous school records, along with teacher recommendations and other materials appropriate to the student’s grade level.
What happens if my child’s grade is full?
When an appropriate space is not currently available, an applicant may be placed in Summit’s wait pool. Availability can change as enrollment plans are finalized.
Does Summit accept students with different learning needs?
Summit considers each applicant individually. During the admissions process, the team reviews the student’s academic history, learning profile, support needs, and other relevant information to determine whether Summit’s program and available resources can appropriately support the student.
Still have questions?
Admissions team.
Please reach out to our admissions team with any questions before, during, or after the admissions process.
(480) 403-9506
admissions@summitschoolaz.org
Summit School admits students of any race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Summit does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, athletic programs, or other school-administered programs.
Diversity and inclusivity
Summit School admits students of any race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Summit does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, athletic programs, or other school-administered programs.
Come see if Summit feels like the right fit.
The best way to understand Summit is to experience it.
Walk the campus. Step inside the classrooms. Meet the people who make this community what it is. Ask questions, tell us about your child, and see what learning can look like when students are known, challenged, and supported.