Summit School is proud to announce that Dr. Stephanie Nardi has been appointed as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2021. Summit is a leading, private, independent school in Phoenix, Arizona, that is committed to promoting academic excellence and developing in its students a love of learning through an innovative, thematic curriculum. The majority of our teachers have advanced degrees that, along with small class sizes, bolster the excellent education that our preschool through eighth-grade students receive. Our state champion robotics and cross country teams, along with our expanding competitive sports programs, further assist in the development of our students.

Dr. Nardi was hired through a rigorous, multistage, national search. Nicole Johnson, Chair of the Summit Board of Trustees, led the search efforts in conjunction with a Head of School Search Committee comprising six trustees. The Board of Trustees unanimously agreed that Dr. Nardi has the ideal experience, skills, and personal traits to lead Summit School in accordance with its mission.

Dr. Nardi’s educational philosophy aligns with Summit’s Mission and Vision, rooted in relationship building, inclusivity, and creating a safe and supportive environment for children. “I am excited for the opportunity to serve as Summit’s next Head of School,” Dr. Nardi said. “There is a natural connection between Summit’s educational philosophy and my own, and I look forward to supporting the students, staff, and families of Summit as we provide an amazing educational experience.”

Dr. Nardi was raised in Wisconsin. In addition to a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, she holds two Master of Arts degrees: one in Educational Technology and one in At-Risk and Alternative Education. Additionally, she also holds a Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership. Dr. Nardi has five years of experience as head of school/principal in private, preschool through eighth-grade schools. She also has seventeen years of teaching experience in elementary and middle schools. Dr. Nardi is currently Head of School at St. Elizabeth-Ann Seton Catholic School in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.

Dr. Nardi is a dynamic professional who will bring creativity, passion, and strategic vision to guide the school in the spirit of a liberal arts approach that fosters the development of students’ academic, social, creative, and physical skills. Regarding the desired qualities for Summit’s Head of School, Nicole Johnson noted, “The Board sought a special leader to take Summit to a new level; a transparent, decisive leader who engages and supports faculty and staff and their professional growth, an inclusive leader who appreciates and values the perspective of parents and students, and one who will also respect and preserve all the aspects of our school that make Summit great. The Board is confident that we have found these qualities and characteristics in Dr. Nardi and is excited about the future of Summit under her leadership.”