Thanks for checking in for this week’s A View of the Summit. This edition focuses on two important areas: our ongoing review of International Baccalaureate (IB) programming and how we fund and expand Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities across our schools.
 
These efforts reflect our shared commitment to student excellence and future readiness.

Clarifying Our IB Review

Summit School District is currently reviewing the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) to assess how they align with our instructional vision, resource use, and students’ diverse needs. This is not a review of the IB philosophy, but rather a thoughtful evaluation of our implementation to ensure that:

• We provide consistent, rigorous learning experiences across all schools

• Our resources are used effectively to support teachers and students
• Our approach creates genuine belonging and prepares students for success

We want to be clear: the IB Diploma Programme (DP) will remain a key part of our high school experience. We’re committed to expanding access to individual DP courses and the full diploma pathway.
 
This review helps us build on our strengths, clarify our district wide instructional approach, and ensure every student benefits from high expectations, engaged learning, and aligned support—regardless of which school they attend.

Spotlight on Career & Technical Education (CTE)

Career and Technical Education is a powerful part of our future-ready pathways, offering students real-world learning that connects classroom knowledge to industry-aligned skills. Summit School District currently offers CTE courses in:

• Multimedia

• Computer & Digital Technologies

• Engineering

• Hospitality & Food

• Construction Technology

• Welding

• Health Sciences

These programs are developed in collaboration with colleges and industry partners and help students gain credentials, explore careers, and transition to postsecondary opportunities. At SSD, we partner with Colorado Mountain College to seamlessly integrate college courses into the SHS student curriculum. This unique collaboration equates to earning college credits and actual savings on tuition as students explore passions and find a pathway to a fulfilling career. 
 
CTE Program Funding Snapshot (FY 2024–25)

• Total Program Cost: Approx. $1.1 million
•  State Categorical Funding: $76,704
•  Federal Perkins Grant: $26,245
•  District General Fund Contribution: Approx. $990,000

In addition to these funding sources, we’re grateful for external support, such as the Bright Futures Fund, made possible through a generous donation from the Summit Foundation. This community investment helps us expand opportunities and strengthen our CTE programming.

Looking Ahead

Both our IB DP program and CTE efforts reflect our district’s Graduate Profile and strategic commitment to student achievement, and future readiness. We are preparing our students for success in college, career, and life.
 
Thank you for your continued partnership in creating inspiring  learning environments for every student.

Tony Byrd, EdD
Superintendent
Summit School District
 

Laura Cotsapas
Chief Transformation & Academic Officer

 

Kara Drake
Chief Financial Officer