Our Learning Community: Shaping a Culture of Responsibility

     In every aspect of the school day, students are expected to participate in positive ways for the community by using good judgment, modeling reasonable and courteous behavior, engaging enthusiastically in the program, and responding to guidance. We integrate emotional intelligence (EQ) into academics and daily activities to create a positive, caring community where all of us can be and do our best.

     Faculty and staff at Synapse School actively model and teach emotional intelligence competencies.  We support students to become more  self-aware, to manage their emotions, to become more empathic toward others, and to nurture positive relationships with the classroom and beyond.  Parent education workshops are offered to the Synapse community with the objective of developing our skills in social and emotional learning, utilizing the Six Seconds Model of Emotional Intelligence:  Know Yourself; Choose Yourself; Give Yourself.

   Our students’ connection to the natural environment is an important priority at Synapse.  School practices present opportunities to move about the campus, including access to the outdoors in both structured and free-play activities.  Supervision by a teacher or administrator is an essential part of a successful outdoor experience.

     As students progress through the levels, there are increasing interactions between cross-and intra-grade social/emotional and academic activities.  A Buddy Program aligns older and younger students together for academic activities, assemblies, and special events, such as the Thanksgiving Feast.

     Portfolio Days are held at the end of each academic unit; there are four scheduled for this year. Families and friends are invited to these days, which showcase students’ talents and educate the participants about Synapse’s programs.  The students teach the audience about the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that they have experienced while moving through a particular module.