January 2026 Newsletter

January 2026

Last year, we highlighted two challenges that our community faces: expanding access to high-quality early learning opportunities and increasing the number of students who are college and career ready. SEI has supported these efforts with other community partners who are making these issues a priority. Our commitment is to continuously strive to provide the data needed to support this work and to highlight and share promising practices.

To accomplish these efforts, SEI has established Peer Learning Networks, or PLNs. PLNs are structured spaces for collaboration that bring together educators, nonprofits, families, businesses, and community leaders. The objectives here are to unite around shared goals using data to guide decisions, to share best practices, to test and scale solutions, and to elevate community voice PLNs are organized around key transition points in a student’s educational journey and include community partners with the reach, readiness, and resources to drive change. For more information on how to get involved, please visit our website at seisummit.org/interest-form.

Here at SEI, we are entering a milestone year for our organization. This year, SEI will celebrate 30 years of supporting education in Summit County. Looking back over the last three decades, a lot has changed regarding the issues facing our young people as they embark on their educational journey. However, one thing remains constant: the need for our students to graduate high school with a concrete plan for what is next. Internally, our team is working alongside partners and community stakeholders to narrow our focus to drive systemic impact in our educational ecosystem so that all students can be successful.

Stay warm and safe.

Sincerely, 

David W. James Ed.D.

Over the past year, Summit Education Initiative has continued to bring partners together across Summit County to strengthen pathways for young people from cradle to career. Through collaborative networks, youth and family engagement, and data-informed strategies, we’ve worked to align systems, elevate community voice, and turn shared goals into collective action. From advancing kindergarten readiness and strengthening early learning transitions to amplifying student leadership and deepening cross-sector partnerships, our work has focused on building the conditions for long-term success—so every young person has the opportunity to thrive.

We are deeply grateful to our partners for an incredible year of collaboration, innovation, and shared commitment. Your leadership, trust, and dedication make this work possible, and together, we are building a stronger future for Summit County’s children and families.