Summit School CEO Retires

After serving as Chief Executive Officer of Summit, Inc. in Elgin since 1984, Dr. Joseph Scime has announced his retirement in leading the operation of the school's two Elgin campuses.

Scime's service to Summit School, Inc. concludes 50 years of leadership in education, including 45 years in the Fox Valley. Prior to his position with Summit, Inc., Scime was employed by Community Unit School District 300 for 30 years, serving 8 of those as Superintendent of Schools.

"Joe Scime has been an invaluable day to day asset to me since I became a member of the Summit School board," said Leo Flanagan, board chairman. "His ability to clearly explain the school's financial structure and budget the finances have made the board responsibilities much easier to fulfill. With Joe's patience and guidance, I received knowledge of the school's operations. I am pleased that Joe and his wife Nancy will get the opportunity to retire and that Joe will continue to share his experience and wisdom with the school".

In looking back at his service with Summit School, Inc., Scime reflected on Summit's positive accomplishments and significant progress. "We have faced many challenges over the years. Today we are on a clear path of bringing Summit School back to the heart of its original roots to empower children with special needs," Scime said. "We are privileged to serve students who arrive at our facilities from over 40 area school districts".

"I am very proud of Summit School's board of directors and their capacity to carry on the school's mission. They had the vision to take on and continue the early learning education program at the Jayne Shover Easter Seal Center in Elgin. Since 2003, our program has increased each year providing a caring atmosphere to help children with a wide variety of educational needs".

Scime and his wife, Nancy, who have been married for 49 years, reside in the Dundee Township area. They have four sons and nine grandchildren.

The Summit School, Inc. board of directors will name the school's new Chief Executive Officer in late July, 2009. Scime will continue to serve in an advisory capacity to Summit School, Inc.

Summit School serves elementary through high school students who are challenged with identified learning, attentional and/or social difficulties, including children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at its River Road location. The Summit School Early Learning Center delivers early childhood education through a variety of programs, blending children with and without disabilities from birth to age 5 at the McLean Blvd. location.

Members of the school's board of directors include: Leo M. Flanagan, Jr., chairman, Jeanette Mihalec, secretary, David Dattilo, treasurer, Barbara Ferguson, Robert B. Hansen, John Ostrem, Mike Polchopek, and Darlene Ziebell.

Summit School provides a safe and secure environment for students to achieve at their highest individual potential. Children learn through an array of programs, which enhance the student's educational experience and build self-esteem. Summit School, Inc. does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.

Summit School, Inc. is located at 333 West River Road in Elgin. For more information, visit www.summitelgin.org or call 847-468-0490.