About Our Community
Students
The reason for Synergy's being. Our students are young people who are open to learning with curiosity, unlimited energy, feelings, struggles, and wisdom. The Synergy community is one of diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds. The staff helps all Synergy children appreciate the value and richness of this diversity through a multi-cultural curriculum, and by fostering an environment that struggles against racism, sexism, and other forms of prejudice.
Empowering Teachers
Synergy's founders were committed to creating a school which thoroughly empowered teachers in every way. Synergy is a true cooperative. All Synergy teachers are co-directors of the school. All administrators teach part-time. All staff are responsible for the implementation and development of curriculum, and for long-range planning and direction. The combining and sharing of staff energies, skills, and resources enhance the strengths and cooperative nature of Synergy.
Teachers
Synergy teachers are qualified and experienced people who are committed to offering a rich and varied academic program. The teachers are trained to assist students by helping them resolve conflicts in a cooperative and non-judgmental way. Teaching at Synergy demands a commitment of time, energy, patience, love, and creativity.
Administrators
The administrators, who also teach part-time, are responsible for the day-to-day operation of the school. They support the growth and development of the teachers and provide important coordination and communication links within the Synergy community.
Parents
Synergy parents are people who choose to be a part of their child's education with energy, support, trust, and commitment. We actively encourage parents to use their strengths and talents within the school in a multitude of ways. Parents participate at every level within the school, and are an integral part of the school's success.
Graduates
Synergy graduates go on to public and private high schools and universities and have found work and careers in a myriad of fields and vocations. The Synergy Alumni Association is an active and integral part of our community and provides a link to our diverse group of graduates.
Board of Directors
The Board consists of Synergy teachers, the three co-founders of the school, parents, and members of the broader educational community. The Board is responsible for the overall well being of the school and makes all policy decisions. Most of the Board's work is done by Board Committees. Synergy parents are encouraged to become committee members and participate in this important work.
Connecting the Community
Synergy is one community and we structure participation in many informal and formal ways to facilitate connections among students, staff, and parents. Some favorite activities include:
- Morning Meeting: A coming together; a time for announcement, group singing, sharing, problem-solving, and discussion.
- Older and younger buddy classes: An opportunity for big and little children to work together one-on-one, and in groups, for activities such as reading, science, and field trips.
- Special Days: Scheduled periodically throughout the year, special days add variety to the regular schedule. They include performances, track and field days, and Fabulous Fridays (planned and voted upon by the students in morning meeting).
- Annual school-wide activities: Backpacking, camping, community service events, and snowtrips help build relationships through shared experiences.
