| As students, families, educators, and community partners prepare for the start of a new school year, all of us at Summit Education Initiative (SEI) are energized by the opportunities ahead. Back-to-school season is more than the return of classrooms and routines. It is a reminder of our shared commitment to ensuring every child has the support, opportunities, and resources they need to thrive from cradle to career. |
|
|
|
This year begins with exciting momentum for our region and for the collective work being led by educators, community organizations, employers, and public sector partners across Summit County. Looking Ahead As the school year begins, we remain focused on strengthening the connections between education, workforce development, and community well-being. The challenges facing students today require coordinated action, and the opportunities before us are greater when we work together. We are excited about what lies ahead and look forward to continuing our work with schools, families, community partners, and business leaders to ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. To our educators beginning a new year, to families supporting their children’s learning, and to the many partners who contribute to student success every day, thank you for all you do. We wish everyone a successful, inspiring, and productive start to the school year. Together, we are aligning efforts, engaging communities, and creating brighter futures for Summit County’s children and youth. |
For three decades, Summit Education Initiative has been driving measurable change in Summit County, helping thousands of students achieve success from cradle to career. Join us in celebrating 30 years of collaboration, data driven innovation, and unwavering commitment to educational equity. Together, we’re building a future where every student has the opportunity to thrive. We envision that all students graduate prepared, passionate, and ready to succeed on their chosen path. Thank you to the organizations and individuals who believe in every student. |
|
|
|
SEI Selected as an Ohio Regional Partnership |
We are proud to announce that Summit Education Initiative has been selected as a Regional Partnership under Ohio Revised Code Section 3310.85. This designation recognizes SEI’s longstanding commitment to advancing educational opportunity and strengthening pathways to success for students throughout our region. As a Regional Partnership, SEI will continue serving as a convener and connector, bringing together school districts, higher education institutions, workforce partners, community organizations, and families to align efforts and improve outcomes for young people. This opportunity reinforces the importance of collaborative, data-informed strategies that help students successfully navigate key transitions from early childhood through postsecondary education and into meaningful careers. The designation also reflects the strength of the relationships and partnerships that have been built across Summit County over many years. We are grateful to the educators, community leaders, employers, and advocates who continue to work alongside us in support of student success. |
|
|
Bringing Summit County’s Voice to Washington |
In June, SEI joined leaders from across the country at StriveTogether’s Policy Summit in Washington, D.C., held June 10-12, 2026. The summit brought together members of the StriveTogether network, policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders to discuss federal and state policies that impact children, youth, and families. Throughout the event, participants explored strategies for advancing equitable outcomes in education, economic mobility, and youth development. The discussions highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration, community voice, and evidence-based approaches to addressing barriers that affect student achievement and long-term success. SEI’s participation provided an opportunity to share lessons from Summit County while also learning from innovative efforts taking place across the nation. The summit reinforced a message that resonates deeply with our local work: lasting change happens when communities align around shared goals and work collectively to create opportunities for every young person. A special “shot-out” to Congresswoman Emilia Sykes and her staff who arranged for use to share some information about our work and priorities. Although Congresswoman Sykes was busy in committee meetings on the day we journeyed to Capitol Hill, during a break in her busy schedule, she took time to step out and greet us. As a proud member of the StriveTogether Network, SEI remains committed to leveraging national partnerships and local leadership to accelerate progress for children and families in our region. |
|
|
In partnership with the Summit County Youth Coalition (SCYC), Akron Public Schools students, and the University of Akron Department of Statistics, Summit Education Initiative supported the analysis of a Student and Teacher Voice Survey exploring relationships, communication, engagement, and school climate. Student leaders from the Students for Equity and Excellence (SEE) groups across Akron Public Schools presented findings directly to school staff, school board members, and community leaders, helping ensure student voice remained central throughout the process. |
Key Findings at-a-Glance: |
|
|
|
|
|
