"I feel so much more enabled to succeed than I could have ever imagined a year ago. I don't want to go back. I want to stay on this path. That's what I am most grateful for is that New Summit has helped me orient myself toward a future that I really want."
Graduation at New Summit Academy is always something special. Surrounded by proud families, friends, and supportive faculty and staff, our graduates reflect on their growth, express gratitude to those who helped along the way, and look ahead with confidence.
But as moving as commencement day can be, what’s even more rewarding is hearing from our students and their families in the weeks, months, and even years after they’ve crossed the stage. Many of our students continue their academic journeys at independent boarding or day schools. Others move directly into college or begin transformative gap year programs.
No matter the path, one thing becomes clear when we reconnect:
But as moving as commencement day can be, what’s even more rewarding is hearing from our students and their families in the weeks, months, and even years after they’ve crossed the stage. Many of our students continue their academic journeys at independent boarding or day schools. Others move directly into college or begin transformative gap year programs.
No matter the path, one thing becomes clear when we reconnect:
New Summit Academy has prepared them, not just for the next step, but for life.
Need some proof? Watch this short video from a recent graduation, and keep scrolling to read powerful words from alumni and parents about the impact of their time in Costa Rica.
The Academic Experience
 | “The education is top notch… Honors level work was offered but tailored for success.” “He was able to catch up on his schoolwork and not miss a year scholastically despite all of his experiences.” “Prior to New Summit Academy, I couldn’t have imagined this outcome. Now he is finishing his final semester of college.” “He finished his high school requirements... and got into his desired college.” |
Personal Growth Support
| "He learned how to be a true friend and developed meaningful, long-term friendships… matured light years ahead of his peers at home." "The time my son spent at New Summit Academy changed the trajectory of his life… he learned many valuable lessons about life, integrity, responsibility, family and friendship." “This is not your typical boarding school... This is an environment to heal, learn, and grow.” |  |
Cultural Immersion and Travel
 | “Costa Rica is a beautiful place… through hands-on adventures and outdoor learning, my son developed a new appreciation for the world.” “Living and studying in the beautiful and safe community of Atenas and Costa Rica… a once in a lifetime chance.” “The cultural experiences and trips… provide continuous opportunity for growth and learning.” |
Our Faculty and Staff
| "The teachers, therapists, and staff truly got to know him as a person… extremely helpful for his personal and academic growth." “The staff are amazing and the level of academic and clinical experience is exceptional.” "The college guidance I received was second to none… I am doing well here because of the skills I learned." |  |
A Launch Pad for Life
 | “New Summit Academy prepared me socially; I learned how to authentically connect with people and be myself. It built self confidence in me where I didn't need as much external validation to function. It taught me executive functioning and the importance of having a routine which let me handle my academics better and get a 95 average last year. It taught me tools to cope with my anxiety which let me stay grounded so I don't act out or seek reassurance anymore to cope with that.” |
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