Upper School

Educating Leaders of Character

Students in our Upper School experience opportunities to excel and lead through rigorous academics, competitive athletics and extracurriculars. The next step is college, and our graduates are accepted into the country’s most selective schools; many also earn a spot on collegiate teams. Visit The Summit to find out why we’ve been named the top Catholic high school in Ohio for six straight years. 

Our Five Pillars

Our mission is to develop leaders of character across five pillars: spiritual, academic, physical, social and artistic.  

students at mass
The Spiritual Pillar

An emphasis on a spiritual, moral and ethical lifestyle for today’s youth is one that Summit inherited from its founders, the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. While not everyone at The Summit professes the Catholic faith, all are encouraged to embrace Summit’s core values of excellence, respect, grace and care. 

“I am impressed with the academics and the faith life of the school. Summit expects a lot from the students, which is wonderful. My daughter ‘found' herself at Summit. The whole program has resulted in growth for her, and I honestly love everything about the school.”
Upper School Parent, 2022-23 

two girls in classroom with calculator
The Academic Pillar

If you’re looking for academic challenge, Summit has it. We offer 24 Advanced Placement classes, unique programs and an emphasis on character-based leadership and creative problem-solving. With two Centers of Excellence in the Upper School, motivated students can prepare for a career in the STEMM field or the business world. The future is wide open. 

“The teachers are excellent, and they care about my children. The passion that they show for their subject area is above and beyond.”
– Upper School Parent, 2022-23

two girl soccer players with trophy
The Physical Pillar

Being part of an athletic team helps teens develop characteristics including commitment, honor, cooperation, leadership and sportsmanship. The Summit is proud of its outstanding athletic program and no-cut policy because when everyone plays, everyone succeeds.   

“An impactful athletics program goes deeper than wins and losses. It’s also about creating a safe space for student athletes and teaching real life lessons about teamwork, personal responsibility and perseverance.”
– Kevin Johnson Jr. '13, Boys' Varsity Basketball Coach

two boys with balloons
The Social Pillar

There are many ways to find your fit at The Summit. Through grade-level retreats, participation on teams or performing groups, extracurricular activities like Mock Trial or Robotics, sharing reflections in Chapel Talks and other opportunities, students gain the confidence and empathy to be part of a larger community.

“My kids love the community of The Summit, and they love attending this school. I notice that the kids in each grade develop close relationships with each other and are supportive and kind towards each other. It's like a family."
– Upper School Parent, 2022-23

student with his display of artwork
The Artistic Pillar

Summit students express their creativity through performing art and visual art. Whether part of the National Art Honor Society or our Camerata choral program or our Upper School band, they can explore and develop their creative, artistic side. 

“Every child has a gift to contribute. My job is to cultivate that gift and provide opportunities for growth and success now and in the future."
– Theresa Merrill, Director of Choral Music

# 1 Catholic High School in Ohio 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

Niche has ranked the Upper School the best Catholic high school in Ohio for six consecutive years.

This unique-to-Cincinnati program engages students in real-world research with working scientists. Click to learn more. 

Students explore the entrepreneurial mindset as they develop an in-depth understanding of business fundamentals. Click to learn more.

Meet The Teachers

Highly-trained faculty, state-of-the-art resources and innovative curriculum have resulted in distinctive programs that make The Summit Country Day School's opportunities unique.
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Bob Jablonski

Bob Jablonski

Homan Center for Entrepreneurship Head
Cliff Pope

Cliff Pope

Assistant Upper School Director
Jessica Replogle

Jessica Replogle

Schiff Family Science Research Institute Head
Kurtis Smith

Kurtis Smith

Religion & Leadership Teacher; Cross Country, Head Coach; Indoor Track, Assistant Coach; Track, Assistant Coach

Questions & Answers

The Summit Difference

student working in science lab

A program for future STEMM professionals

students in lab coats in classroom

Business courses that train future leaders

counselor smiling with student

Two school counselors who guide social-emotional learning

three girls, one speaking in microphone

Leadership opportunities

football player catching football

No-cut sports in three seasons

boys wearing tuxedos singing

Diverse ways to express creativity

teacher with two students

Trained and enthusiastic teachers

Admission

smiling young man in suit

Email us to request a call from Brandon Lorentz, Upper School & International Assistant Director of Admission.

View opportunities to visit the Upper School.

Learn about the Upper School application process.

Request more information.