When people think of Maine, “diversity” isn’t always the first word that comes to mind. We’re known for our rugged coastlines, dense pine forests, and—if we’re being honest—a fairly homogenous demographic. At Summit Achievement, diversity is not a buzzword—it’s a lived experience woven into our daily work with students, families, and staff.
We recognize that for our students to truly grow, they need to see a world that reflects the one they’ll be returning to. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to build a community that doesn’t just “fit in” with the local landscape, but stands out as a vibrant, inclusive microcosm of the broader world. Diversity at Summit shows up in meaningful, practical ways that strengthen our program and better prepare students for life beyond our campus.
Diversity in the Context of Maine
We are proud to be a diverse program within the context of the state of Maine. While Maine’s overall demographics may look different from those of larger urban areas, Summit Achievement actively works to build a community that is inclusive and representative of a wide range of backgrounds. Our student body includes adolescents from across the country and around the world, bringing varied cultural experiences, family structures, learning histories, and worldviews into our shared space. This exposure helps students learn not only about themselves, but also how to engage respectfully and thoughtfully with others.
Prioritizing Diversity in Hiring
Diversity begins with our staff. We prioritize hiring professionals who bring different perspectives, identities, ages, and life experiences to Summit Achievement, with a strong emphasis and racial diversity. Our team includes a wide range of guides, clinicians, teachers, and support staff—people who come from different professional paths and personal journeys. This intentional approach to hiring enriches our culture and ensures that students can see themselves reflected in the adults who support them.
Gender Diversity and Representation
Summit Achievement is a gender-diverse program, and we believe that diversity in gender identity and expression strengthens our community. Students benefit from learning in an environment where gender diversity is normalized and respected, and where individuality is valued. Diversity shows up in many forms—how people present themselves, how they communicate, and how they experience the world—and our program is designed to honor those differences.
Diversity Comes in Many Shapes and Sizes
We also recognize that diversity extends beyond race, ethnicity, and gender. It includes age, personality, physical ability, neurodiversity, and lived experience. Our community includes older and younger guides, staff with varied career backgrounds, and individuals who bring different strengths and styles to their work. This range allows students to connect with mentors in different ways and learn that there is no single “right” way to succeed or belong.
Connection to the Local Community
Summit Achievement actively partners with local cross-cultural community support services to broaden our perspective and deepen our impact. These relationships help us stay informed, responsive, and connected to the wider community, while also modeling for students the importance of collaboration and mutual respect. By engaging with local resources, we continue to grow as a program and ensure that our practices reflect both care and cultural awareness.
Our Commitment Moving Forward
Diversity at Summit Achievement is an ongoing commitment, not a finished goal. We continue to listen, learn, and evolve—challenging ourselves to create a space where all students feel seen, valued, and supported. By embracing diversity in all its forms, we build a stronger, more compassionate community and help students develop the skills they need to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Why It Matters
At the end of the day, our commitment to diversity serves one goal: The Student. When a student sees a guide who looks like them, shares their background, or simply defies their expectations of what an “authority figure” looks like, a door opens. It creates a space where vulnerability is safe and growth is possible.
We’re proud to be building a program that is as diverse and resilient as the landscape we call home.
If your teenager is struggling with their mental health or difficulty within the family system, and you are considering treatment options, perhaps Summit Achievement could be right for your family. Reach out to Admissions today.