Contact The Summit

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

18 Years at The Summit

Middle School
6th Grade Math and Social Studies

Education:
B.S. and M.Ed. Wittenburg University

Certification:
Grades 1-8

Teaching Experience: 49 years
18 years at The Summit

I was inspired to become a teacher under the belief that I could make a significant, positive contribution to young peoples lives. In my teaching philosophy I stand true to the hopes of the future and will do anything in my power to enable students to meet their full potential as they grow into adulthood.

While at The Summit, I was the recipient of the CG and E Award of Inspiration for Excellence in Teaching.

My wife, Juanita and I have two lovely daughters who are both teachers. I also have a pet Golden Retriever and enjoy antique hunting and music.

 

Degrees:

Alan B. Lynam, B.S., M.Ed.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

2 years at The Summit

Middle School
8th Grade English

Education
B.A. Psychology, Eduation and Spanish Literature from Washington University in St. Louis
M.A. Education from St. Louis University

Certification:
Elementary 1st - 8th

Teaching Experience: 12 years
3rd year at The Summit

Several teachers during my years of education were great inspirations to me. Becoming a teacher is my way of saying thank you to them. I also love to share my passion for the English language with my students. I have taught high school psychology and social studies, early childhood special education and middle school English.

I chose to teach at The Summit for so many reasons. Two of my sisters are graduates of The Summit and had extraordinary experiences here. My children have attended The Summit for the past 4 years and are receiving an excellent education and personalized attention from their teachers. My aunt, Sister Stella Marie, was a Notre Dame Sister who lived on the 4th floor and taught math in the Upper School. Teaching here gives me the opportunity to share my talents and give back to this place that has given so much to my family.

My philosophy is simple: meet the students where they are and bring them to where they could be! I always encourage my students to take the extra step and go beyond expectations. The teaching of character is very important to me as well. I use my curriculum to teach character: from the moment the students greet me at the door, to our discussion of themes in poetry and literature, to my emphasis on the importance of proper communication (spoken and written), I emphasize that fine character is most important.

In addition to teaching my classes, I enjoy coaching the Power of the Pen team at the 8th grade level, working with students in our Writers' Club, and collaborating with my 8th grade colleagues to produce an 8th grade play for Campus Day.

I have been married for 18 years to a wonderful man, John J. Alway, who works for The Andrew Jergens Company. I have 3 children: Alix (age 17), Maria (age 16), and Catherine (age 5). I also have 2 dogs, Sunset and Malibu.

 

 

Degrees:

Rosemarie Sansalone Alway, B.A., M.A.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

37 Years at The Summit

Middle School
Music/Drama Teacher

Education:
B. S. Kent State University
M. A. Xavier University

Certification:
All Subjects K-3
Music and Speech 7-12

Teaching Experience: 38 years
38 years at The Summit

My inspiration to become a teacher was to share the music and film that I loved with children.

Along with teaching music, speech and film I have also taught social studies, study skills, gym and science. I believe I am the students' partner in achieving success. In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I am the moderator for Student Council.

I believe my life has been formed by being with children everyday. They have encouraged me to be more honest and have taught me that gentleness is a strength. I still love sharing music and film with my students and feel privileged to be here.

I have 4 children: Ben-30, Jill-26, Maxwell-14, and Jacob-11. The canine member of our house is Mozart. Robin Bratt is the love of my life and luckily, I'm married to her. I like to cook, garden, and read.

 

 

Degrees:

Bruce M. Bowdon, B.S., M.Ed.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

12 Years at The Summit

Middle School
6th Grade Religion

Education:
B.A. The College of Mount St. Joseph, Art Education
M.A. Miami University, Art Education

Certification:
Art K-12
Religion

Teaching Experience: 16 years
13 years at The Summit

I was inspired to become a teacher because of the opportunity to share my faith and talents with the children. I taught at The Summit the first ten years of my teaching career and knew this was a very special community. I always dreamed of coming back to teach when my children were old enough.

Over the summer, I took many classes sponsored by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Classes included Catechetical Process, Prayer Workshop, Basic Beliefs, and a two day Summer Art Workshop.

I volunteer with people with disabilities on the Knights of Columbus Opportunity Day. I also support the Right to Life organization. My family also sponsors a child in the Dominican Republic through Children's International Program. My family belongs to St. Ignatius of Loyola Church in Monfort Heights, where I am a very active member. I volunteer at the Sunday bingo to raise money for the church and school and I am a sponsor couple for the marriage preparation program. I also am very active in the Lighthouse Prayer Community, serving as a speaker, assistant prayer group leader and a member of the Pastoral Team. I will also be helping in their Life in the Spirit Seminar.

I have been married for 18 years to my best friend, Scott. I have boy/girl twins who are in the 4th grade. Our family has a 150 gallon fish tank with several fish and a pet ferret named Snickers. As a hobby, I love to weave baskets, which I have exhibited in local art galleries and exhibitions.

 

 

Degrees:

Julianne M. Currie, B.A., M.A.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

9 Years at The Summit

20 Years in Teaching

10 Years at The Summit

 

Degrees:

Lawrence H. Dean, B.A.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

26 Years at The Summit

Middle School
6th Grade Language Arts and Social Studies

Education:
B.S. The College of Mount Saint Joseph, Education

Certification:
K-8

Teaching Experience: 37 years
27 years at The Summit

I became a teacher because it was simply what I always wanted to be. There was never any doubt in my mind that I would become a teacher. My career began in a self contained classroom so I taught every subject, including music, art, and physical education.

I chose to teach at The Summit because it gave me the opportunity to specialize in language arts which was always my first love. I was also looking for an opportunity to teach in a Catholic school.

Each and every child is important to me, and I value what he or she brings into our classroom. I believe that my role must be to foster and encourage self confidence, an ability to self advocate, and a love of learning in each of my students. These are lifelong skills that will serve my students well in their futures.

Outside of the classroom, I coach lacrosse, mentor a young writers' club, and I am a member of the educational consultancy team. I also work with Little Flower Parish on various projects.

I recently attended the Ohio Middle School Conference in Columbus, Ohio. I am also certified as a Schools Attuned teacher after attending Mel Levine's A Mind at a Time Institute last year.

I have been married to John DelFavero for 35 years. We have two children: Sean and Tricia, who graduated from the Summit. We also have a dog named Dani. Reading and gardening are my main hobbies; although, I do go to the gym 3 times a week and lift.

I am a believer in The Summit on both a professional and private level. I know that The Summit is an excellent place to raise our children.

 

 

Degrees:

Brenda D. DelFavero, B.S.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

Years at The Summit

Middle School
8th Grade Science

Education:
B.S. Wayne State University
Working on Master's in Educational Administration

Certifications:
Middle Childhood grades 4-9 with a concentration in Science

Teaching Experience: 7 years
 5 years at The Summit

I've often thought I had a special talent in relaying information to children. Teaching is a natural extension of that talent. Also, I realized I've admired the skills of teachers from whom I learned best. I incorporate their talents in my classroom. I have taught an all-inclusive sixth grade for two years in Michigan, two years of fifth grade language arts at The Summit and have moved on to teach eighth grade Science.

When I interviewed with Dave Lewis, the former director of the Middle School, The Summit seemed very familiar to the schools I attended while growing up. I instantly felt like part of the community.

My philosophy agrees with the statement, "All children can learn." Over the past few years, I have become attuned to their multiple intelligence levels. It's not a matter of If a child is smart, but how is that child smart? My job is to help each child find out how they are smart and utilize their gifts to make them responsible, independent thinkers.

I have been married for over twelve years to my wonderful wife, Kelly. We have a terrific 3 year-old son, Tommy, who attends The Summit Montessori. We have two dogs, Gabby and Brady, who were both rescue dogs. I enjoy playing golf, baseball, and going for a run.

 

 

Degrees:

Michael E. DiPaola, B.S.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

4 Years at The Summit

4 Years in Teaching

 

 

 

 

Degrees:

Stephanie P. Duggan, B.A., B.S.E.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

1st Year at The Summit

5 Years in Education

2 Years at The Summit

 

 

Degrees:

Allison K. Ely, B.A., M.Ed.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

7 Years at The Summit

Middle School
Guidance Counselor

Education:
B.A. University of Cincinnati, English Literature
M.Ed. and Clinical degree Xavier University, Counseling

Certification:
Religious Education

Teaching Experience: 15 years 
8 years at The Summit

 

I began working professionally as a social worker and discovered what a large effect I had on younger children. This drew me to teaching. When former Middle School Director, Dave Lewis, contacted me about teaching at The Summit, I could not turn him down.

I have quite a family connection here at The Summit as my wife, father-in-law and brother-in-law all taught here at one time. Coaching here for 6 years, I was always impressed by the well-rounded athletes.

I fully believe that each student does not realize how powerful an effect they have upon their peers. I want to be sure that they learn this to become a positive and influential force in each others lives.

My wife, Diane, and I have been blessed with three children - Carter, Alexis and Annie. I love doing anything outdoors- hiking, biking, camping, playing soccer- and I also enjoy reading.

 

 

 

Degrees:

R. Michael Fee, B.A., M.Ed.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

38 Years at The Summit

Middle School
6th Grade Science and Social Studies

Education:
B.S. Ed. University of Cincinnati

Certification:
Grades 1-8

Teaching Experience: 39 years
39 years at The Summit

In my years at The Summit, I have taught science, social studies, physical education, and health.

The Summit's excellent reputation is what brought me here. In teaching, I believe that meeting students at their individual level is key when achieving their greatest potential.

When I am not teaching, I take part in the science department curriculum as coordinator for the Middle School. I also chair The Summit's United Way campaign.

I am married with four children, two dogs, and one cat.

 

 

Degrees:

Patrick N. Hayes, B.S.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

3 Years at The Summit

Middle School
8th Grade Religion

Education:
B.A. Religious Education and Liberal Arts, Summa cum Laude, College of Mount St. Joseph

Certification:
Religion

Teaching Experience: 5 years
4 years at The Summit

I am the Curriculum Coordinator for the Middle School Religion Department. I also coordinate and train the Middle School student Eucharistic Ministers.

Most recently, I attended a workshop on Therapeutic Journaling. As part of my curriculum, the students regularly compose reflections in their private classroom journals. This workshop reenforced to me the validity and importance of journal writing and suggested various journaling techniques and topics.

Outside of the classroom, my husband and I meet with engaged couples from our parish and administer the FOCCU Survey and then meet with them to discuss the results. I am also a Eucharistic Minister Coordinator and a member of Christ Renews His Parish Team 3.

Our family hosted an exchange student from The Netherlands during our middle son's senior year of high school. Henk-Jan lived with us for about ten months and quickly became a member of our family. We visit back and forth about once a year.

I have been married to my high school sweetheart, Mike, for thirty years. We have three grown sons, two of whom are married. Our eldest son and his wife had a baby daughter last May, our first grandchild! Our youngest son is a Berry Scholar and Chemical Engineering major at the University of Dayton. My hobbies include traveling, reading, scrapbooking, and various other arts and crafts.

 

 

Degrees:

Penny M. Herr, B.A.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

 

14 Years in Education

1st Year at The Summit

 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

2 Years at The Summit

Middle and Upper Schools
Religion and Physical Education

Education:
B.S. Indiana University, Sports Management
M.Ed. Xavier University, Sports Administration
Teaching Licensure Progam, Indiana Wesleyan University

Certification:
Basic Religion Certification, Archdiocese of Cincinnati
Ohio teaching license, Physical Education

Teaching Experience: 6 years in Education
3rd Year at The Summit

I chose to teach at The Summit because it is a well respected school in our city. I also enjoy its great community atmosphere. The Summit welcomed me with open arms.

As a teacher, I try to find the learning style of every individual student. Realizing that everyone is different, I have to communicate my teaching methods to reach all of my students. In doing so, I am hoping to have each of them reach his or her optimum success now and in the future to come.

One of my most noteworthy professional endeavors includes participation in the Initiative for Catholic Schools Program at Xavier University. While at St. Francis DeSales, I took part in a program which helped improve the performance of future Catholic school administrators. Through this program, I gained my Educational Administrative license.

I was married in July of 2006 to Kim (Powers) Hoyt. I also love sports and am very proud to be a native of the great Hoosier state.

 

 

Degrees:

Richard D. Hoyt II, B.S., M.Ed.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

3 Years at The Summit

Middle School
5th, 6th and 8th Grade Art

Education:
B.S. University of Cincinnati, DAAP, Architecture
M.A. University of Cincinnati, DAAP, Art Education

Certification:
Visual Art K-12

Teaching Experience: 5 years
4 years at The Summit

I have always loved school, and every school subject has interested me in some way. I had a particular talent in and enjoyment for visual art, which led me to teach this subject. Since I was young, I have considered teaching. When I arrived in high school, I had a phenomenal Art teacher - ever since, I have wanted to teach Art. I realized that art could be so much more than just drawing - it opens up a whole new world in 2- and 3-dimensions.

I took a short detour into Architecture, which I enjoyed very much. As I worked in firms in Cincinnati and Chicago, however, I realized that my true passion was educating others. I decided to earn my master's degree and began to teach fine art. I am grateful that life has led me on this journey and that I have arrived at The Summit!

I chose to teach at The Summit because of the commitment the faculty and staff have to the students. This commitment is not only part of their teaching philosophy, but is demonstrated each day. When I interviewed for the Middle School Art teaching position, this commitment to student learning and character development came through clearly in the questions that were asked. I also chose The Summit for the students - I have a passion for teaching Art and it is very satisfying to teach such motivated, engaged, and creative individuals.

Art is a vast subject - each student can find success, whether it be in 2-dimensional drawing or painting, 3-dimensional sculpture or ceramics, or computer-generated imagery.

I strive to create a safe environment where each student feels comfortable expressing themselves in each medium that is presented.

I attend the Ohio Art Education Association conference on a yearly basis. Often, I will participate as a conference presenter, speaking on various art education topics. I was also invited to be a guest speaker for the Art Education department at the University of Cincinnati (October 2006).

I have a black and gray toy poodle named Baby (named and given to me by my grandfather). I enjoy painting, national and international travel, and reading.

 

 

Degrees:

Alyson M. Iannitti, B.S., M.A.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

21 Years at The Summit

Middle School
5th grade Language Arts and Social Studies

Education:
B.A. The College of Mount Saint Joseph, Sociology and Psychology
M.A. The College of Mount Saint Joseph, Education
Also, 18 graduate hours at Xavier University

Certification:
Grades 1-8 any subject
Grades 7-12 Social Sciences

Teaching Experience: 28 years
22 years at The Summit

I was born a teacher! When I was in second grade I taught my sister, who was in kindergarten, how to read. The amazing part about it was when she went to first grade they realized she was hearing impaired!

When I was working with a teacher at St. Dominic whose son was a student at The Summit, she heard there was a job opening in the Primary and thought this place was the perfect match for my teaching style. She was really right! I have her to thank for the inspiration to come here.

Outside of the classroom I support my students in things they do at school. I attend their basketball games among other things.

I volunteer at my church with Interfaith Hospitality Network. Every six weeks our parish hosts homeless families. They live in our convent for one week. We provide food, laundry service, homework instruction, and craft activities. I work with the kids. Sometimes the very young parents join me!

I also enjoying supporting The Leukemia Lymphoma Society. My children are training to bicycle 100 miles around Lake Tahoe in June. They aren't aware of it yet, but I hope to join them for the last 30 miles. They should be exhausted by that time and I should be able to keep up with them without looking too old!

I have been married to Bill for 34 years. He is presently the principal of Guardian Angels School. I also have four wonderful children. My hobbies include reading, traveling, and quilting. I find them all to be extremely relaxing and something I learn from daily.

My personal mission has always been to be a lifetime learner and "to improve the world I inherit." I believe I live that mission and I rejoice in seeing my own children and the children I teach, take part on that same path. It is so fun traveling together!

 

 

Degrees:

Patricia L. Kenney, B.A., M.A.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

3 Years at The Summit

Middle School
7th Grade Mathematics

Education:
B.A. Miami University
Currently working on M.Ed. at Wright State University

Certification:
Grades 4-9 in Mathematics and Social Studies

Teaching Experience: 4 years in Education
 4 years at The Summit

My Bachelor's degree focuses on middle childhood education with a concentration in Mathematics and Social Studies. Before graduating, I completed a thematic sequence in math and did my capstone project in geometry. This fall I began my masters in educational leadership through Wright State University.

I have always loved working with children and greatly enjoy the "teen" age. I enjoy helping people come to new conclusions and exploring new material. Putting these two passions together I have found the perfect profession.

I choose to teach at The Summit because it is such a warm and welcoming community. Everyone is so friendly and helpful and the parents are all very supportive. I was also attracted to the Summit because of the small class sizes and its focus on individual students.

I believe that every child has the ability to succeed. I am a proponent of a variety of learning styles. I believe that if the students are given the chance to explore the material through multiple venues they will be more likely to understand and retain the material. I feel it is important for students to discover math through the use of manipulatives and I encourage students to use critical thinking to apply what they already know to what is being learned.

I coach the middle school girls tennis team. This fall I am also hoping to start a middle school boys tennis team. Currently, I am also part of a professional book club. The book club consists of teachers from neighboring schools and we read and discuss educational articles and newly published books.

In the Summer of 2005, I married a wonderful husband. We are both teachers so we spend the summers and any vacation time traveling to places all over the world. This year we will be traveling to Australia!

 

 

Degrees:

Kristin M. Lovell, B.S.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

8 Years at The Summit

12 Years in Teaching

Lower, Middle and Upper School
Music, Band, and Ceramics

Education:
B.A. Central Washington University
M.A. University of Oklahoma
Doctorate in Music at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music

Certification:
Music

Teaching Experience: 13 years
 9 years at The Summit

I don't think any one thing or one person inspired me to become a teacher because I've known since I was about 4 years old that I wanted to teach. It wasn't until I was in junior high that I knew I'd be a music teacher.

When students show the interest, I would like to have a pep band play at Summit sporting events. I also perform with a clarinet quartet called The Prestige Clarinet Quartet. Our group was invited to perform at the International Clarinet Association Convention in Atlanta, Georgia this summer.

I also enjoy listening to my iPod, musicals, playing my clarinet, making pottery and kayaking.

 

 

Degrees:

Sarah A. Nowlin, B.M., M.M.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

5 Years at The Summit

Middle School
7th Grade Science

Education:
B.S. Miami University, Biological and General Sciences- Secondary Education
M.A. Miami University

Certification:
Biological and General Sciences, grades 7-12

Teaching Experience: 13 years

6 years at The Summit

I have experience teaching Environmental Science, Biology, Physical Science, Integrated Life/Earth Science, and General Science.

My strong passion for Science and interacting with children made teaching a natural and ideal choice for me. That sparkle of excitement in a child's eyes is the greatest reward!

I chose to come to The Summit because I value the tremendous support from parents, colleagues, and administrators, as well as small class sizes that foster a great deal of individualized attention. I also value the emphasis placed on character education; that is, the value of developing the child as a whole person.

I facilitate learning moments in the science classroom by presenting engaging lessons that involve my students on multiple levels, and guide them toward developing good study and organization strategies. My goal is to create successful, lifelong learners that have an appreciation and interest in science.

I am a member of the NSTA (National Science Teacher Association), and I recently attended their National Convention in Atlanta. I also recently attended a conference on Differentiated Instruction, as well as completing a course on Life Science Education for graduate credit.

I am married to my husband Steve, and we have two children and one Golden Retriever. My daughter Carissa is 5 years old and attends school here in the Montessori program; my son Sam is 2 years old. We enjoy spending time outdoors, doing home improvement projects, and crafts.

 

 

Degrees:

Joy C. Parker, B.S., M.A.T.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

14 Years at The Summit

Middle School
5th Grade Science and Social Studies

Education:
M.A. University of Pittsburgh, Elementary Education

Certification:
Elementary Grades 1-8

Teaching Experience: 15 years
15 years at The Summit

I had fantastic teachers in early elementary school that made me feel unique and special, and this is what I want to give to my students. The Summit allows me to try innovative teaching methods. With the small class size, I am able to give more individual attention to my students.

As a constructivist, I feel that children need to experience scientific concepts to make sense of them. They are constantly in the process of creating and refining concepts in my class.

The past two summers I have participated in Earth Expeditions with the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens and Miami University. In addition, I worked with Project Dragonfly to help review inquiry lessons being developed for use at the Cincinnati Zoo.

I have traveled to Namibia to study cheetah conservation. I have also visited Belize, where I studied the manatee, coral reef, howler monkey and Mayan forest ecology and conservation issues. I also learned inquiry methods of teaching science, and participatory education.

In June, I attended "School's Attuned" training in Bath, Ohio. This program shows teachers how to identify the learning strengths and challenges of their students in order to help them succeed in school.

My husband, Eric, and I have three wonderful children: Josh, Emma and Keelin who all attend The Summit. We also have two dogs and a hamster. I love to travel, read, scrapbook, and watch football.

 

 

Degrees:

Megan E. Rademacher, B.A., M.A.T.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

1st Year at The Summit

 

2 Years in Education

2 Years at The Summit

 

Degrees:

Jamie M. Spurgin, B.S.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

1st Year at The Summit

 

2 Years in Education

2 Years at The Summit

 

Degrees:

Julie A. Tasch, B.S.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

7 Years at The Summit

Lower and Middle School
Spanish

Education:
B.A. Ohio University

Certification:
Spanish

Teaching Experience: 13 years
  8years at The Summit

I became a teacher because I really needed an audience. Then the audience started really listening and responding to my style. Now, I let them come up to the stage once in a while so I can be their audience. I love it! I believe that The Summit chose me. They needed a Spanish teacher, I applied and got the job. I was new in town, and I did not hear about The Summit's wonderful reputation until I started telling my friends about my new job. I knew I was in good hands. I believe in interdisciplinary activities. When teachers work across the curriculum, students learn better.

Outside of teaching, I represent the Middle School on The Summit's Inclusion and Diversity Committee. I am also the Buckeye Chapter Coordinator of the National Spanish Examination. I also take part in the Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Degrees:

Yngrid A. Thurston, B.A.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

9 Years at The Summit

Middle School
8th Grade Mathematics

Education:
B.Ed. University of Toledo, Secondary Education
M.Ed. University of Cincinnati, Curriculum and Instruction specializing in Math
Post- Masters Level coursework in Math Education

Certification:
Permanent Ohio Certification, English and Math (7-12)

Teaching Experience: 24 years
10 years at The Summit

My mother taught high school math and my aunt was an elementary teacher and principal. Both of them taught me by example the importance of having teachers who are committed to their students and passionate about their subject matter. The Summit's academic reputation was the initial draw for me. When I first saw our beautiful chapel and met some of the faculty and staff members. I felt an absolutely overwhelming sense that I was called to be here.

I believe that the best learning occurs in an environment that encourages students to wrestle with new concepts and to ask questions. Students who feel as though their questions will be addressed become more willing to ask questions and become more confident in their own ability to learn math.

Specifically, I believe that math books need to come with math teachers! It is my role to translate the language of the textbook into language and demonstrations for students to grasp more easily.

Here at The Summit, I am the 8th grade level team leader, Middle School Math Curriculum Coordinator, and Middle School Representative to the LPDC.

I am currently a member of Phi Delta Kappa Education Honorary Society. I also serve as The Summit's teacher representative to ISACS, OAIS, and the OAIS' Teacher Services Committee. I represent The Summit and OAIS as a state representative to the ISACS' Professional Services Committee.

I have been married to Douglas Varick since 1990. We have two dogs: Bailey (a 9-year-old Chocolate Labrador Retriever) and Cassie (a 4-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel).

Some of my hobbies include interior decorating and sewing, "power shopping", and target shooting (I'm a good shot!).

I was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship in 2001. I spent three weeks in Japan as a guest of the Japanese government. We visited schools at the elementary, junior high, high school, and community college level in Japan as well as visiting cultural sites and enjoying the local (sushi and noodles!) restaurants.

 

 

Degrees:

Carolyn K. Varick, B.Ed., M.Ed.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

18 Years at The Summit

Middle School
5th Grade Language Arts and Social Studies

Education:
B.A. Psychology with concentrations in language arts, social studies, math, and philosophy
M.Ed. Counseling

Certification:
Language Arts, Social Studies and Math

Teaching Experience: 34 years
19 years at The Summit

While working with the Head Start Program in Atlanta, Georgia, I discovered the joy of a child when the door to learning is opened. I have been captivated by the learning process ever since.

I have taught language arts, social studies, math, study skills, SAT prep, strategy simulations, values, and kindergarten.

The choice of The Summit was a family choice. We were attracted to its sense of community and values. Personally, the emphasis on the individual child suited my teaching style.

My philosophy in teaching is to give the child the courage to have a voice and something to say. The rest will come. I also strongly believe in using a variety of teaching strategies since each child has a unique way of learning.

I support Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and Teams in Training through raising funds and participating in the walks. I also adopt a child through Children International. Lastly, I support a group of entrepreneurs with the Women's Fund.

I participated in two workshops on book binding last spring. During the summer, I attended a workshop about teaching writing through folk tales, poetry, and puppetry. I also investigated the VTS (visual thinking strategy) program through the Metropolitan Museum of Art and a mini workshop.

I am married to a fellow teacher, Tom Venner. My children have all grown into wonderful independent adults. I love reading, painting, mixed media art, writing, lifting weights, and traveling.

 

 

Degrees:

Annie B. Venner, B.A., M.Ed.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

13 Years at The Summit

Middle School
7th Grade Social Studies

Education:
B.A. Southern Utah University, U.S. History
M.A. University of Sacramento, Anthropology
M.A. University of Cincinnati, U.S. History

Certification:
Social Studies

Teaching Experience: 34 years
14 years at The Summit

As a teacher himself, my father inspired me to take on a career in the same path. I moved to Cincinnati with my family so that my son could attend The Summit.

I believe in challenging my students and infusing excitement by using my own great passion for learning. I do this through hands-on activities.

I am a writer and have published 10 books (history and historical fiction).

I have done archaeological work in the Southwest US (AZ, NM, UT, NV, CA), Peru, Ireland, Mexico, and the Kingdom of Jordan.

I am married to Annie Brown Venner, also a teacher at The Summit, and have one son (W. Josh Venner) who currently is in the Army.

 

 

Degrees:

W. Thomas Venner, B.A., M.A.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

5 Years at The Summit

Middle School
6th Grade Language Arts and Social Studies

Education:
B.A. University of Kentucky
M.A. Xavier University
Rank 1 Xavier University

Certification:
Elementary Education, Reading Specialist, Special Education, Educational Administration

Teaching Experience: 19 years
6 years at The Summit

I have always liked being with children and I really enjoyed seeing their successes in the classroom. My children attended The Summit and I found it to be such a great environment that I wanted to be a part of the program. I believe in teaching to the individual child. I do this by trying to individualize the program to fit the needs of each one at their own level. I believe in creating a positive environment that is conducive to learning.

Outside of the classroom, I do different run or walk events relative to a variety of charities. I also support Juvenile Diabetes events.

My most recent professional development has been The Summit initiated workshops relative to Mel Levine work.

I am married to Lou George and have three children and three dogs. My daughter, Alex, is a senior at Miami University, Sammi is a freshman at Boston University and Robby is a junior at The Summit.

I enjoy running or working out after a day of teaching. I also like to spend time working in the yard.

 

 

Degrees:

Anne T. Vertuca, B.A., M.Ed.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700
fx: 513-533-53xx

Other Information:

12 Years at The Summit

Middle School
Librarian

Education:
B.A. Eastern Kentucky University
M.Ed. Northern Kentucky University
Endorsement in Library Science/Media Specialist from University of Kentucky

Certification:
Librarian Certification K-12

Teaching Experience: 19 years
13 years at The Summit

I have always enjoyed helping children be successful and I worked in the library at Highlands High School for three years. There I found how much fun it is to work in a school library and began taking library classes at night. In high school I worked in the school library as well as working as a page in a public library.

I had always heard great things about The Summit as far as academics so I was happy to become a part of the faculty.

I want the library to be a place where the students are welcomed and feel comfortable. The students are encouraged to give suggestions for books to be purchased for the library. That is one way they can take ownership and feel a part of the Tyrrell Library.

Each year I usually attend the Oelma Conference in Columbus, Ohio. I also go to the main public library each spring for the Check It Out program during which the public librarians tell about the best new children's books available. I will also attend a BER conference entitled Strategies for Strengthening Your School Library Program.

My husband and I were married for thirty-six years and have two children, Amy and David. Amy is a veterinarian in South Carolina and David is a computer specialist in Louisville, KY. I have three cats and a dog and enjoy sewing, gardening, working with my ponds, and attending garden, craft, and house tours.

 

 

Degrees:

Karen A. Wagner, B.S., M.Ed.
 

Location: Middle School
ph: 513-871-4700

Other Information:

33 Years at The Summit

Middle School
Art

Education:
B.A.

Certification:
Middle School Art, Theology

Teaching Experience: 40 years
34 years at The Summit

I chose to become a teacher because of my love of children and the arts. I wanted to share my God-given gifts with the children at The Summit.

I am a Summit Alum, my best school years were spent at THE SUMMIT. I wanted to give back to the school that had given me so very much.

Every child can develop into an outstanding artist. You do not need to be born with artistic talent, you can be developed into an artist. I want to establish in each child that comes into my classroom the mission statement of The Summit. I challenge each child to put forth their God-given gifts. I want to develop each child both spiritually and artistically.

Here at The Summit, I am involved in the alumni association, multicultural events and I am also the Art Show coordinator and director of the aftercare program.

I am happily married with two fine sons and a wonderful nephew who I call my third son. We live across the street from The Summit because The Summit is our Home away from home. I love antiquing, art, dogs, and decorating. I recently established my own business, PBY Restorations, which restores vintage homes.

I am blessed to be on the staff of The Summit Country Day School and I thank God daily for the gifts of this outstanding institution that has been bestowed upon my life.

 

 

Degrees:

Paula Bien Yarnell, B.A. ‘65
 

Location: School Secretaries
ph: 513-871-4700
fx: 513-533-5377

Other Information:

15 Years at The Summit

Degrees:

Patricia Wilhelmy