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Mission - Vision - Philosophy
Synapse is a TK-8 independent school in Menlo Park, CA with a mission of Educating a Community of Change Makers. Synapse is a leader in the teaching of leading edge Academics, Innovation and Social-Emotional Learning and an aspirational and inspirational model of a learning community.
Leading-Edge Academics
Synapse inspires and engages students' love of learning through hands-on, project-based learning utilizing our HEARTS curriculum framework and brain-based research.
Social-Emotional Learning
Social-Emotional Learning is the foundational pillar of Synapse and fully integrated in the TK-8 curriculum and community. Students learn 8 competencies of the EQ model of Know Yourself, Choose Yourself, Give Yourself, empowering them for the future.
Innovation
Synapse is an aspirational model of education that embodies the practice of innovation in the curriculum and culture. Using the Innovation model - Explore a challenge, Envision potential solutions, and Execute on their vision, students learn critical thinking and problem solving skills.
Community
Synapse's caring community is inclusive and celebrates all differences. We love to connect and have fun with opportunities for all to participate in school activities, social gatherings and parent education.
Change Makers
Synapse's mission is Educating a Community of Change Makers. Synapse empowers every student and community member to impact the world in positive and authentic ways.
Synapse Learning Outcomes
All Synapse students develop the practices and habits of mind: Communication, Creativity, Perspective, Feedback, Follow-Through, Inquiry, Iteration, Advocacy, and Risk.
What Sets Us Apart
![SEL through Parent Education]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1759165295/synapseschoolorg/k0xf146tz2tfahy7hqqz/IntrotoSEL-ParentEd-262.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1759165295/synapseschoolorg/k0xf146tz2tfahy7hqqz/IntrotoSEL-ParentEd-262.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1759165295/synapseschoolorg/k0xf146tz2tfahy7hqqz/IntrotoSEL-ParentEd-262.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1759165295/synapseschoolorg/k0xf146tz2tfahy7hqqz/IntrotoSEL-ParentEd-262.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1759165295/synapseschoolorg/k0xf146tz2tfahy7hqqz/IntrotoSEL-ParentEd-262.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1759165295/synapseschoolorg/k0xf146tz2tfahy7hqqz/IntrotoSEL-ParentEd-262.jpg","width":2200}])
Parent education is a central part of the Synapse family experience and it supports the school’s mission of “Educating a Community of Change Makers.” Parent education at Synapse aims to help parents navigate the challenges and celebrate the joys of parenthood. This is achieved through various opportunities for parents to learn from experts, each other and themselves.
![Change Makers]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1759165756/synapseschoolorg/x2smxyq8otxecinmvm4e/IMG_9180.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1759165756/synapseschoolorg/x2smxyq8otxecinmvm4e/IMG_9180.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1759165756/synapseschoolorg/x2smxyq8otxecinmvm4e/IMG_9180.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1759165756/synapseschoolorg/x2smxyq8otxecinmvm4e/IMG_9180.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1759165756/synapseschoolorg/x2smxyq8otxecinmvm4e/IMG_9180.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1759165756/synapseschoolorg/x2smxyq8otxecinmvm4e/IMG_9180.jpg","width":2200}])
Our school's mission is Educating a Community of Change Makers. Synapse empowers every student and community member to make positive change in the world.
Each year, the Synapse community identifies a Change Maker who embodies that school year's theme and can be a lens through which we view our curriculum and projects for the year. Every class, Transitional Kindergarten (TK) - 8th grade, learns about the life and work of this Change Maker
![8th Grade exit ticket project of reusable bags decorated with protect the earth language.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1693947996/synapseschoolorg/ztlwaqcwx5drifqojp4j/IMG_71081.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1693947996/synapseschoolorg/ztlwaqcwx5drifqojp4j/IMG_71081.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1693947996/synapseschoolorg/ztlwaqcwx5drifqojp4j/IMG_71081.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1693947996/synapseschoolorg/ztlwaqcwx5drifqojp4j/IMG_71081.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1693947996/synapseschoolorg/ztlwaqcwx5drifqojp4j/IMG_71081.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1693947996/synapseschoolorg/ztlwaqcwx5drifqojp4j/IMG_71081.jpg","width":2200}])
The 8th Grade Exit Ticket is the culminating project for Synapse students. Each year, graduating 8th graders participate in a unique mentorship and reflection project that allows them to celebrate their learning, practice leadership, and prepare for their transition to high school. Working with a faculty mentor, each student designs and implements a leadership, passion, and/or service project.
![Brainwave Learning Center]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1661789333/synapseschoolorg/ritwopkqsutwy2l5vqvi/IMGP3446_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1661789333/synapseschoolorg/ritwopkqsutwy2l5vqvi/IMGP3446_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1661789333/synapseschoolorg/ritwopkqsutwy2l5vqvi/IMGP3446_1.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1661789333/synapseschoolorg/ritwopkqsutwy2l5vqvi/IMGP3446_1.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1661789333/synapseschoolorg/ritwopkqsutwy2l5vqvi/IMGP3446_1.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1661789333/synapseschoolorg/ritwopkqsutwy2l5vqvi/IMGP3446_1.jpg","width":2200}])
The Brainwave Learning Center is a first-of-its-kind partnership between Synapse School and educational neuroscience researchers at Stanford University.
![Our Engineering and Design Center team showing students the saddle project.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1687898802/synapseschoolorg/ajejhlw8ur30kcoq5wf6/PXL_20230328_180914133.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1687898802/synapseschoolorg/ajejhlw8ur30kcoq5wf6/PXL_20230328_180914133.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1687898802/synapseschoolorg/ajejhlw8ur30kcoq5wf6/PXL_20230328_180914133.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1687898802/synapseschoolorg/ajejhlw8ur30kcoq5wf6/PXL_20230328_180914133.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1687898802/synapseschoolorg/ajejhlw8ur30kcoq5wf6/PXL_20230328_180914133.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1687898802/synapseschoolorg/ajejhlw8ur30kcoq5wf6/PXL_20230328_180914133.jpg","width":2200}])
To enrich and elevate the TK-8 Synapse School experience through explicit practice of hands on and embodied learning, thinking big, and practicing maker mindsets. We go big, think differently, and are creating the most inclusive, integrated, and innovative Makerspace in any TK-8 school!
Aspirational & Inspirational
![Change Maker Outcomes 'Profoundly Effective']([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1759165463/synapseschoolorg/sgyiprcmzsqwgj9fesnf/NoahAlaska-2_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1759165463/synapseschoolorg/sgyiprcmzsqwgj9fesnf/NoahAlaska-2_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1759165463/synapseschoolorg/sgyiprcmzsqwgj9fesnf/NoahAlaska-2_1.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1759165463/synapseschoolorg/sgyiprcmzsqwgj9fesnf/NoahAlaska-2_1.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1759165463/synapseschoolorg/sgyiprcmzsqwgj9fesnf/NoahAlaska-2_1.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1759165463/synapseschoolorg/sgyiprcmzsqwgj9fesnf/NoahAlaska-2_1.jpg","width":2200}])
Synapse School had a profound impact on me both during and after Middle School, as well as to who I am today — shaping not only how I learn but also how I see myself. Unlike my experience in a public elementary school, where emotional insight, curiosity and the desire for a close knit community often took a backseat, Synapse provided a space where these underappreciated parts of being a student were celebrated. I was encouraged to think differently, to ask questions that didn’t have simple answers, and to explore my passions.
![A Legacy of Love: Synapse Founder is Epitome of EQ]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1758057700/synapseschoolorg/eboua9vz3ovzsybvouok/IMG_6558.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1758057700/synapseschoolorg/eboua9vz3ovzsybvouok/IMG_6558.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1758057700/synapseschoolorg/eboua9vz3ovzsybvouok/IMG_6558.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1758057700/synapseschoolorg/eboua9vz3ovzsybvouok/IMG_6558.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1758057700/synapseschoolorg/eboua9vz3ovzsybvouok/IMG_6558.jpg","width":1463}])
One small act of kindness can change the world. When it comes to Synapse School Founder Karen McCown, the kindness and optimism she has shared with those around her is infinite.
![Rivian's RJ Scaringe: From Childhood Dream to Electric Revolution, Fueled by Family and Optimism]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1741381111/synapseschoolorg/sx8trvskr9n5ukvbygrf/IMG_4350.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1741381111/synapseschoolorg/sx8trvskr9n5ukvbygrf/IMG_4350.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1741381111/synapseschoolorg/sx8trvskr9n5ukvbygrf/IMG_4350.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1741381111/synapseschoolorg/sx8trvskr9n5ukvbygrf/IMG_4350.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1741381111/synapseschoolorg/sx8trvskr9n5ukvbygrf/IMG_4350.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1741381111/synapseschoolorg/sx8trvskr9n5ukvbygrf/IMG_4350.jpg","width":2200}])
RJ Scaringe, the visionary behind electric vehicle giant Rivian, has turned a lifelong dream into a reality. Known for producing rugged, adventure-ready vehicles, Rivian has captured the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. But behind the innovative company lies a story of perseverance, hard work, and a touch of idealism, all nurtured since Scaringe’s childhood.
In a Bold Ideas conversation about innovation and creation with Synapse Head of School Jim Eagen on March 4th, Scaringe revealed that despite Rivian's adventure-driven image, his current preferred mode of transport is a simple road bike. This reflects the grounded, family-focused nature of the Rivian founder and CEO, who is also the father of three boys, all students at Synapse.
![Future of Edtech Could ‘Change How We Teach and Learn’]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1732229667/synapseschoolorg/bdbd6ej2txv4hnarlrj9/IMG_3138.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1732229667/synapseschoolorg/bdbd6ej2txv4hnarlrj9/IMG_3138.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1732229667/synapseschoolorg/bdbd6ej2txv4hnarlrj9/IMG_3138.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1732229667/synapseschoolorg/bdbd6ej2txv4hnarlrj9/IMG_3138.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1732229667/synapseschoolorg/bdbd6ej2txv4hnarlrj9/IMG_3138.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1732229667/synapseschoolorg/bdbd6ej2txv4hnarlrj9/IMG_3138.jpg","width":2200}])
While there will always be challenges that come along with new technology in education, the most important thing is that we continue to nurture and embrace children’s natural curiosity through teaching and learning practices and systems, said Jean-Claude Brizard, President and CEO of Digital Promise, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization focused on shaping the future of education and advancing equitable education systems by bridging solutions across research, practice and technology.
Brizard, also a Synapse parent of two students and one alumnus, this week kicked off the 2024-25 Synapse School Bold Ideas series in conversation about new frontiers in learning with Head of School Jim Eagen.
![Renowned Psychology, Neuroscience Expert: Thinking & Emotions go Hand in Hand]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1710526210/synapseschoolorg/ns3niwnbcbuq858apzw7/IMG_0595.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1710526210/synapseschoolorg/ns3niwnbcbuq858apzw7/IMG_0595.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1710526210/synapseschoolorg/ns3niwnbcbuq858apzw7/IMG_0595.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1710526210/synapseschoolorg/ns3niwnbcbuq858apzw7/IMG_0595.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1710526210/synapseschoolorg/ns3niwnbcbuq858apzw7/IMG_0595.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1710526210/synapseschoolorg/ns3niwnbcbuq858apzw7/IMG_0595.jpg","width":1920}])
The optimal learning environment for children is one in which we co-create our context and give them opportunities to practice agency, said Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, a distinguished professor of education and psychology at the University of Southern California and director of the Center for Affective Neuroscience, Development, Learning, and Education (CANDLE).
Immordino-Yang — who has had a remarkable academic career focusing on the psychology of education and development of learning and is a star in her field — this week was our special guest speaker for Bold Ideas with Head of Synapse School Jim Eagen.