Carpenter School

My older child went to Summers-Knoll through last year (K-5th) and my youngest is still there (now in second). Summers-Knoll has been like a second home to them. They feel loved and seen and have always been super excited to go to school. I’ve never had a day where my kids didn’t want to go. I’m sure that is in large part due to the amazing teachers, excellent field trips and engaging projects. The kids spend hours outside each day and learn things like the “science of sledding”. Really that was a physics lesson (force, mass, acceleration) and one that was absorbed and not forgotten. I have to admit I was a bit nervous about the schools model although I knew according to research project-based learning mixed with lots of time outdoors is the best way for kids to learn (look at Finland). But as an academic the lack of testing and the structure was a challenge for me. However, my eldest daughter thrived and by the end of fifth grade was years ahead in math and reading at a high school level. The school is also diverse and really brings all children and families into the community. My kids have also learned about social justice, different cultures and religions. Overall, the school has simply been an amazing place for my children to be for the last 6 years and so I cannot more strongly recommend this school.

St. Paul has been an answered prayer for our family. The teachers and staff are caring and go the extra mile. We take great comfort knowing our children are receiving a Christ-centered education that is top notch. We are so grateful for all the ways St. Paul has impacted our children's lives academically, socially and spiritually.