Summit, the private school that strived to create a Montessori environment for students age 3-12, is closing after 24 years in Boca Raton.

Here is an excerpt from an email sent to parents on April 29 from Dr. Susan List Mike, Head of School:

Dear Summit Parents,

We’re sorry for the delay in getting this update to you, but we did not have any clear answers until last night and the staff was updated in person today.   It is with great sadness that we inform you that the school will be closed after this school year is completed and there will not be summer camp. We moved ahead with Summer Camp and enrollments for next year based on the reassurance from those involved with the process that the bank was working with the investor, a price had been agreed upon and it was just a matter of time for the bank to accept the offer.  The investor met the bank’s offer, but when the representative of the bank went to the Board, they did not accept the offer. The investor then counter offered with at a higher price and again the bank did not accept the offer.

We then had hoped to have a second investor, with Montessori experience and a previous owner of a Montessori school, run the school and work with the bank through the foreclosure to keep the school running, and the bank would not work with her either.  This was our last option. All families who have registered for camp or 2011-2012 school year will be refunded their money in full. We send our sincerest regrets and we thank all of our staff, parents and children for their support and dedication throughout this year and the years that we have been honored to serve with you at this school.

As I mentioned above the school will be open and operating until the final day June 1st.  The school office will remain open after June 1st through the 10th. We still have several events on our calendar to enjoy until the school year comes to a close.

Summit’s financial troubles had been known for some time, with some teachers and students leaving for other schools, even as Summit fought to stay afloat.

For those looking for alternatives for next year, find some options in our Preschool Guide. And you can read in the BocaParent blog about these private schools: Saint Andrew’s, Pinecrest, Grandview Prep,  and Boca Prep International School.