Smart Start
Smart Start SAT/ACT Event

Train with a Top Summit Tutor Before Test Day

Join a free SAT or ACT Strategy Session and learn proven test-taking techniques from an expert Summit tutor.
Aug 4 & 6 | Aug 11 & 13

Foundations of SAT & ACT

If your student needs extra support to build the skills essential for success on the SAT and ACT, we’re here to help. Summit Foundations is our 1:1 tutoring program designed to strengthen the Math and Verbal content tested on these exams. Tailored for 9th, 10th, and rising 11th graders, Foundations ensures students develop a solid academic base before diving into full SAT and ACT preparation.

Program Highlights:

  • Targeted skill-building: Focus on fundamental Math and Verbal concepts essential for the SAT & ACT.
  • Customized 1:1 tutoring: Eight 90-minute sessions, scheduled at your student’s convenience.
  • Flexible format: Sessions available in-home or online.
  • Personalized approach: Programs can be tailored in length and focus to meet individual needs.

About Our Curriculum

Summit’s Foundations program is built on 30+ years of expertise in educating students. Our evidence-based curriculum strengthens core skills in math, reading, and writing, helping students excel not only on the SAT and ACT but also in their everyday academic classes.

What We Cover:

  • Math: Algebraic functions, logarithms, trigonometry, and other key concepts.
  • Reading & English: Critical reading and analysis, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.

Beyond mastering test content, students gain confidence and stronger academic performance, setting them up for long-term success.

How to Get Started

  1. Take a Practice Test – Your student will begin with a practice test to assess their baseline knowledge and identify key areas for improvement.
  2. Meet Your Program Director – A dedicated Program Director will review the results and create a personalized tutoring plan.
  3. Get Matched with a Tutor – We pair your student with a caring, experienced tutor who fits their personality, learning style, and academic needs.
  4. Personalized Lessons – Each session is customized to focus on the foundational skills your student needs to master for success.

Our expert tutors don’t just teach the material—they know how to engage and motivate students, helping them build confidence alongside essential academic skills.

“Absolutely top-notch in terms of staff. Knowledgeable, professional and friendly! Perfect materials aimed at ensuring all critical areas are covered. Wonderful services in terms of students' abilities to take diagnostic tests in a testing environment at Summit's offices.”

Debbie N., Parent

“My husband and I want you to know how grateful we are for the extraordinary support and professionalism we've experienced since we started working with Summit last summer. Our son thinks the world of his tutor. He has been extremely helpful in easing our son's anxiety about taking standardized tests, and has equipped him with countless strategies to dissect any test he takes.”

Polly B., Parent

“Our tutor was patient and thoughtful. He was clear and took the time needed to work with our son. He was also very accommodating with our schedules.”

Gail K., Parent

“The Program Directors are excellent. They educated me on best practices and looked at my son’s specific situation to make recommendations tailored to him.”

Evelyn S., Parent

“My son's tutor was really helpful and has a gentle, relaxed demeanor. He pinpoints exactly what needs to be worked on and doesn’t waste time on the stuff that doesn’t.”

Darcy H., Parent

"My son's tutor was terrific. He helped him with test taking strategies that made a big difference in his scores."

Christy, H., Parent

Meet Some of Our Top Tutors

Tessa Murray, PhD
Tessa Murray, PhD

Originally from Scotland, Tessa moved to the U.S. in 2001 after earning a PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Aberdeen. She completed postdoctoral research at Boston University and worked as a research scientist at Tufts Medical Center. Tessa spent ten years as an educator at the Museum of Science, where she honed a knack for breaking complex topics into simple, engaging pieces. She joined Summit as a tutor in 2015 and makes sessions productive and enjoyable, using a touch of humor to ease test prep. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, biking, camping, skiing, and traveling.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE

AP: Biology, Chemistry, Calculus AB, Precalculus

Academic: Algebra, Biology, Calculus, Chemistry, Geometry, Trig/Precalculus

Paul Broderick
Paul Broderick

A Summit tutor since 2017, Paul specializes in math and science, as well as standardized test preparation. Known for his relaxed approach and high standards, he helps students build confidence while mastering challenging material. Paul holds a PhD in Philosophy from Boston University and teaches as an adjunct faculty member at Clark University and The College of the Holy Cross in Worcester. Outside of tutoring, he enjoys rock climbing, reading, and the continued pursuit of truth.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE

AP: Precalculus, Calculus, Physics

Academic: Algebra, Calculus, Geometry, Physics, Trig/Precalculus, English, US History, European History

Megan Erickson
Megan Erickson

A strengths-based, methodical tutor, Megan joined Summit in 2013 and builds a close rapport with families while keeping sessions engaging and results-focused. She earned a BS in Psychology/Biological Bases of Behavior from Duke, then spent five years in clinical research at Tufts while completing post-baccalaureate pre-medical work at Harvard. Choosing education over patient care, she now tutors full time and loves helping students reach their goals. Outside of work, she follows sports and travels widely—22 countries and counting—with highlights like Denali base camp, Mt. Fuji, and the Great Barrier Reef.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE

Academic: Algebra, Biology, English

Michael Singer
Michael Singer

A Summit tutor since 2015, Michael has decades of teaching experience working with learners of all ages. He specializes in test prep and academic tutoring in math, English, and history, as well as reading, religious studies, ESL/ELL, and biblical studies. He holds a BA in History from Franklin & Marshall and an MA from Brandeis, where he also completed PhD coursework. Outside of tutoring, he enjoys family time, reading, cooking, podcasts, classic video games, and sports.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, PSAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE

Academic: Algebra, Geometry, English, US History, European History, World History

Executive Function Coaching

Dave Pyrch
Dave Pyrch

Dave earned BS degrees in Mathematics and Math Education, along with an MA in Education from the University of Connecticut. He has been tutoring with Summit since 2018 and brings over nine years of experience as both a tutor and high school math teacher. Passionate about helping students break down complex math concepts, Dave uses proven strategies to build mastery and confidence. Outside of tutoring, he is a marathon runner, kayaker, and music enthusiast.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE

AP: Statistics, Calculus BC and AB, Precalculus

Academic:  Algebra, Calculus, Geometry, Trig/Precalculus, Statistics

Lauren Doolan
Lauren Doolan

A Summit tutor since 2012, Lauren specializes in test prep and English, helping students build confidence and master new skills with her patient, encouraging approach. She holds a BA in Writing, Literature, and Publishing from Emerson College and an MFA in Writing from Sarah Lawrence. Outside of tutoring, she enjoys reading, sewing, cooking, and traveling.

Areas of Expertise

Test Prep: SAT, PSAT, ACT, SSAT, ISEE

AP: English Literature, English Language

Academic: English

Ready to get started?

Contact us to discuss test prep and tutoring options.

MA: 1-800-698-8867 / CT: 1-800-843-8520 / NY: 1-800-391-8435