While Syringa Mountain School is licensed through the Idaho Public Charter School Commission, it is still subject to the same laws governing public schools and participates in all tests mandated by the state, according to Idaho Department of Education.

A key element of Syringa Mountain School’s curriculum is “teacher looping,” meaning that students move through multiple grades together with the same teacher. School Director Christi Thompson said in an interview with the Express that this continuity across grades—in addition to small class sizes and a “hands-on and integrated” curriculum—helps bolster testing achievement.

“Our hope is that we can go beyond the traditional classroom learning and provide students with this immersive experience that deepens their understanding of ecology, physics, civics and history,” Thompson said.

Each year, Syringa Mountain School organizes an Eco-thon, during which students solicit pledges and sponsorship from friends and family while completing public service projects. Funds raised go toward the continuation of outdoor education programs and field trips.

“Throughout the year, you’ll see us at the Senior Center. You’ll see us picking up garbage on the bike paths. You’ll see us at different places on Howard Preserve,” Thompson said. “It’s a really big piece of the stewardship that we’re hoping to bring back into the community, as well as teaching our kids the value of service.”

Thompson said Syringa Mountain School will see its largest graduating class of 16 eighth-grade students this year, and the graduates will continue to Wood River High School.