School Feature: Summit Road STEM Elementary

Summit Road STEM Elementary is a vibrant learning community that currently serves roughly 400 students from kindergarten through 5th grade. The school creates an environment where young learners are empowered to think critically and solve meaningful problems.

At this school, education is grounded in hands-on, real-world experiences. Through Problem-Based Learning, students apply classroom knowledge to authentic challenges. The school’s STEM focus is strengthened by a robust STEM Advisory Council featuring partners such as:

• COSI
• The Columbus Zoo
• Schumacher Homes
• The PAST Foundation

A standout partnership with Ohio Code Scholar through Southern State Community College brings the Droids program to 5th graders. This initiative allows students to build engineering and coding skills that prepare them for future careers.

In addition, the campus features a garden and wetlands area that serve as outdoor classrooms. These spaces allow students to explore science, sustainability, and environmental stewardship in a meaningful and engaging way. The culinary lab further extends this learning, as students use ingredients from the garden and cafeteria to create recipes while building life skills and connections across content areas.

While the garden, wetlands, and culinary lab are popular resources, students have full access to many more. Summit Road also provides targeted support for its diverse learners, including a strong English Learner program, intervention services, and collaborative teaching structures to ensure all students can access high-quality instruction. Technology is integrated throughout the building to enhance learning and provide students with opportunities to create, collaborate, and problem solve.

Engaging with families and the community is vital to the school. The annual STEM Night is a perfect example of this commitment. During the event, students and families come together to engage in hands-on activities that showcase student learning and promote curiosity and innovation. In addition, the school hosts events throughout the year that celebrate its diverse community and highlight student learning, including showcases of Problem-Based Learning projects and opportunities for families to engage directly with classroom work.

In order to remain engaged with families, Summit Road takes communication seriously. The leadership believes strong communication is essential to building meaningful relationships. Staff members share updates through a weekly school newsletter, social media, and direct communication from teachers and the main office. These platforms allow the school to celebrate student success, share important information, and keep families connected to the community.

Principal Matthew Jacobs says that the school staff is deeply committed to creating meaningful learning experiences and building strong relationships with students and families. He states, "It is inspiring to see our students grow not only academically, but also as thoughtful, innovative, and compassionate individuals who are ready to make an impact in their world."

He is proud to be a Spark because of the incredible students, staff, and families that make up the community.