Synapse is a student-led research initiative serving LAUSD students, launching a pilot for juniors at John Marshall High School. Through consistent mentor meetings, supervised work time, and a collaborative cohort model that brings students together in a shared scholarly environment, Synapse expands access to rigorous STEM research — particularly for students from historically underrepresented and low-income communities — while helping students sustain interest in STEM, build academic confidence, and strengthen long-term pathways in science and engineering.
Small-scale collaborative and independent student investigation
Structured biweekly virtual research mentorship sessions with university mentors
Two teacher-supervised research work sessions per week
Guided literature review and research question development
Final written paper or formal research presentation
Synapse is launching at John Marshall High School with a long-term vision for growth. By partnering with teachers, university mentors, and STEM organizations, the program seeks to broaden access to meaningful research opportunities for LAUSD students.