Heather Tracy earned an Honors Bachelor of Arts degree in language and psychology at St. Louis University where she was a Presidential Scholar.  She then continued her studies at Harvard Graduate School of Education, earning a Master of Education in Human Development & Psychology with coursework and research focusing on adolescents at-risk.  She is tri-lingual (French, English, and Spanish) and has lived in Costa Rica since January 2002.

Previously, Heather did research on Math and English support programs for the MCAS in Boston Public Schools, taught English as a Second Language to teenagers and adults, taught college reading and writing courses to study abroad students, and served one year as a volunteer English teacher in the Costa Rican public school system through World Teach Costa Rica.  Before founding New Summit Academy, Heather set up and directed the academic program at Coronado Academy, where she also taught English classes and served as school guidance counselor in matters of standardized tests and college applications and assessment.  

Being a part of the founding team of New Summit Academy in 2004 has been the highlight of her career, and she feels blessed to be able to be a part of the team creating innovative, holistic, and quality education for unique young men. Her goal is to enhance traditional skills needed for college in unique, interesting ways that are attractive to each student's particular learning strengths.  With engagement in activities that develop teen brains, minds, bodies, and spirits inside and outside the classroom, students are able to showcase their learning strengths, improve their learning weaknesses, earn confidence and curiosity for learning, and produce work that lives up to their potential.

In her free time (free time?), Heather loves to travel, dance, read, eat good food, and take care of the various pets that seem to keep showing up at her doorstep.