gpa

dude bids at bam a just require you to party so grades from high school aren't an issue.

If the OP is a girl, then grades are 100% a huge factor. First cuts are solely based on grades and recs, and if you don't have at least a 3.0, MAYBE a 2.8 if you have connections, you'll be cut from a lot of houses. That being said, there are other ways to build your resume and make a good impression. Anything can happen!

1. Almost every girl rushing considers themselves top tier material, and 9/10 of those girls get dropped by the top tier houses. 2. No matter the tier, the houses are usually a pretty good mix of girls with many different niches; you'll be able to find a group of girls to hang out with in any house. I don't really know how much summer classes will help; just bust your ass for the rest of high school and you should be good. I know a girl who was from my hometown (Birmingham suburb) that had all top tier houses during pref and she had a 3.0. You'll find out where you fit in the most.

Should I not rush if I can't bring it all the way up to a 3.0? Could I take summer school at bama or another university and use that in place of my high school grades? I've heard that as an option but want to be clear! Could I stand out with an outstanding amount of recommendations? Thanks for the help

Summer grades are not counted. Unless you have a 3.0, you WILL be cut from many houses. But not all.
Having 10 recommendations per house won't help.
Are you outstanding in some other way? Major pageant winner, major offices held in clubs, started your own charity, top fundraiser for something?