Setting Down Deep Roots
Yes, it’s true! We are thrilled to announce that after three years of searching for the perfect place, the Summa vision has indeed taken root. We invite you to share in our excitement and become an integral part of our process as we design, plan, remodel and decorate over the next several months. Thanks to our dedicated realtor, Sara Daley, a partnership with Lindquist Development Inc. and his realtors, and our architect Laurie Simpson, we have landed!

Located at 2510 SW 1st Ave., the Summa Campus sits right on the edge of downtown. It is a beautiful brown brick building originating from the mid 1960s, with floor-to-ceiling windows on both floors, a view of Mt. Hood, and easy access from all parts of Portland. Inside, the building is empty and will be built to suit Summa’s needs. Based on over 25 years of research and experience we know that education is for the optimal development of the whole person and that this serves humanity as a whole. This principle is what the Summa Institute will brin g forward within the child’s network of relationships. And we look forward to creating a rich learning environment which reflects this.

Over the next several months we will be working in partnership with Lindquist and Laurie Simpson to totally transform the 12,600SF space to be a living breathing entity where the teaching, practice and application of Natural Learning Relationships will unfold. Here children, teachers, parents and other professionals will engage and make use of our renovations and spaces:

• Two classrooms for children ages 5-7
• Four subject based learning labs for children ages 8-14
• An art and science lab
• Library and multi-media room
• Administrative offices
• Professional development center
• Flex space for community events and whole family experiential learning
• 2,000 SF creative space for project-based learning
• New systems (HVAC), roof, seismic upgrades, and security system
• Reception area
• Outdoor play area

We will be posting updates, photos and highlights of the progress on our Facebook page, please follow along @ http://facebook.com/summainstitute

Ready, Set, OPEN!
Summa Institute will open its doors in January 2013, once our extensive renovations have been completed. At the start of the New Year, we will start hosting open houses, information nights, talks and lectures. We will also be accepting applications for the K-8 Summa Academy which, as a year round school, will open on August 12th, 2013.

As a parent, your family is first in all your decisions. How you live, learn, work and play is encompassed by what is best for your children. Ensuring your values are reflected in these endeavors is the purpose and joy of your life.  Summa Institute is the place where children, families and teachers intertwine, and are collectively engaged in accomplishing the above values, as we grow together.

We are seeking caring, knowledgeable and engaged people to become part of our exclusive Founding Families. You, as a family with a passion for positive living, have an unprecedented opportunity to take an active leadership role in this child-centered, family supportive, educational community where inspiration and wisdom emerge. Only a limited number of families will be part of this unique opportunity. If you are interested in learning more about this once in a lifetime opportunity, contact Amber, and she will set up a time to meet with you. She can be reached at 503.287.1785 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

From our Family to Yours
We want to thank you all for your continued support and commitment to seeing Summa actualized. Many of you have been with us for over 20 years; some more recently joined, all have supported, guided, shaped and shared. It has been a long road, rich with learning opportunities for all of us.

This building marks the beginning of seeing that hard work pay off. We extend our heartfelt gratitude on behalf of our family and from all the children, families and professionals in Portland who will benefit from Summa for many years to come!

With love, Amber, Albee, Ba and Josette

p.s. please share this news with family and friends.