Summit Educational Service Center (ESC) is committed to providing personalized solutions that help Ohio’s school districts maximize resources, improve student outcomes, and operate more efficiently. By offering innovative programs, leadership development, special education services, and behavioral health support, Summit ESC enables schools to focus on what matters most—educating and supporting students—while reducing financial strain.
Summit ESC is not just about reducing costs—it's about delivering high-quality, customized services that help districts, educators, and students succeed. Schools benefit from expert-led programs designed to provide long-term impact at a fraction of the cost of private alternatives.
Some of the ways Summit ESC maximizes district resources while enhancing education include:
Specialized Student Services: Programs like KIDS FIRST and TOPS (Transition Opportunities for Students) offer high-quality education and life skills training for students with disabilities at a lower cost than private alternatives. Additionally, the TALK (Teaching Auditory Learning to Kids) Program ensures preschool students with hearing impairments receive the necessary support in district settings.
Preschool Consortium: Summit ESC’s Gold Star Step Up to Quality award-winning preschools deliver top-tier early childhood education, helping districts streamline licensing, compliance, and operational costs.
Leadership & Treasurer Search Services: Recruiting superintendents, treasurers, and administrators is a major challenge for districts. Summit ESC provides customized search services to find leaders who align with each district’s needs, saving time and money while ensuring the best fit.
Strategic Planning & Board Development: Schools benefit from expert-led strategic planning, board training, and policy guidance, all provided at a fraction of the cost of private consulting firms.
Behavior & Wellness Coordination: Mental health and student wellness programs are a growing priority, and Summit ESC provides grant-funded programs, wellness coordinators, and specialized training to help schools effectively support student well-being.
Professional Development & Instructional Support: Educators receive ongoing, research-based training aligned with district goals—from literacy and math workshops to behavioral intervention strategies and instructional leadership development.
Shared Services & Cost Savings Initiatives: Summit ESC enables districts to reduce costs through cooperative purchasing agreements, administrative shared services, and grant assistance while maintaining excellence.
Each Ohio school district has unique challenges, and Summit ESC’s strength lies in adapting its services to meet those individual needs. Whether it’s special education support, cost-effective leadership searches, strategic planning, or professional development, Summit ESC partners with educators, students, and families to create personalized solutions that work.
"At Summit ESC, we take pride in offering high-quality services that strengthen districts, empower educators, and enhance success for students and families. By working collaboratively with schools, we provide innovative, cost-effective, personalized solutions that truly make a difference," states Joseph Iacano, Superintendent of Summit Educational Service Center.
The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce has recognized Summit ESC as a High-Performing ESC due to its ability to save districts money while maintaining top-tier services. In FY25, ESCs across the state saved Ohio school districts a combined $112 million, a testament to their collective impact.
As Summit ESC continues to expand its impact, the organization remains focused on innovation, efficiency, and educational excellence. Through new partnerships, expanded student support programs, and leadership development, Summit ESC will ensure that Ohio schools are equipped for the future—without unnecessary financial strain.
For more information on Summit ESC's continued endeavors to deliver personalized solutions for Ohio educators, students, and families, please contact Superintendent Joseph Iacano at (330) 945-5600 or explore www.summitesc.org.