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Peninsula School

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Menlo Park, CA
Peninsula School

Peninsula School is an Independent progressive school in Menlo Park, California. Together they became very educated in the works of the progressive movement.

Peninsula School is a progressive school created by an ambitious group of parents from the Stanford faculty and spouses, local high school leadership, and those interested in moving education of children away from the test heavy methods of the time. They were lead by Josephine Duveneck, and successfully launched the school, which has lasted with its focus on child-centered, experiential learning w

ith strong emphasis on choice, critical thinking, connection to the great outdoors, and the creative arts for 90 years. Set in the beautiful and historic Coleman Mansion, it remains a joyous place for children to play, learn and grow.

08/21/2026

New faces at Peninsula School! Please join us in giving a warm welcome to our newest teachers.

First up: Jodi Cocconi joins us as the new head kindergarten teacher in the Rainbow classroom. 🌈

Jodi hails from a family of educators and brings more than 25 years of experience as a teacher and administrator in early childhood education.

She enjoys traveling, both near and far, and discovering food, culture, and architecture and has a special fondness for exploring small towns. At home, her energetic Golden Retriever, Cali, keeps her on her toes and brings lots of joy to her days.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know the staff, children, and families and becoming part of the Peninsula community. I can’t wait for a wonderful year of learning, growth, and fun together!”

Ngugi Kihare joins us as the 3rd grade head teacher in Oak. He is most excited about sharing his first day at Peninsula with his daughter, Tara, who will be starting kindergarten. ♥️

Originally from Nairobi, Kenya, Ngugi has been an elementary educator in the Bay Area for over 10 years. Most recently he taught 3rd-grade at The Primary School. He has worked extensively as a wellness educator and trainer in academic settings that foster mindfulness and social-emotional practices to support student well-being, self-regulation, and classroom engagement. Ngugi is also a yoga instructor and ultra-marathon runner (50 to 100 miles).

“I love Peninsula’s outdoor learning program and connections to nature, and I’m excited to build on those traditions with my class.”

Cora Poe joins us to teach our combo K-1 class in Sunshine. 🌞

Cora has been a teacher in the Bay Area for 11 years, starting at The Nueva School and then Synapse. Cora has a BA from UC Davis and an MA in Education from the Bay Area Teacher Training Institute.

In addition to her experience teaching Kindergarten, she has taught mixed-age classes and worked as a kindergarten math specialist. She loves hiking and camping with her dog Willow and enjoys crochet, puzzling, board games, escape rooms, skiing and all things sci-fi.

“I believe social and emotional learning should be the cornerstone of our teaching lens, and want to make sure

08/18/2026

Just one week until the start of another school year! We can’t wait to see you! 🫶

08/11/2026

As the return to school inches closer, here’s a look at how Peninsula families enjoyed the best of summer - from inventive backyard swing stunts, building sandcastles at the beach, making discoveries in the garden and visiting family and enjoying adventures in faraway lands.

“Our daughter had a blast in Switzerland playing in the amazing alpine playgrounds, taking scenic train rides and eating way too many popsicles.”

Celebrating a 6th birthday in the Swiss Alps!

Enjoying an Alaska cruise and taking in the glaciers.

Riding the sea-to-gondola, watching whales and checking out botanical gardens and the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver.

Legoland and visiting grandparents in SoCal!

“Our family hiked 10 miles round trip to Trchkan Waterfall, and we were amazed that our daughter powered through the entire trek like a true champion. Reaching one of Armenia’s hidden natural treasures made every step worth it. As for our son, he, of course, had to climb every rock and get all muddy at the bottom of the waterfall, Peninsula style :)”

Time with family in India.

Enjoying time in Kauai with grandma.

Riding the carousel at Great America!

A trip to Barcelona, evening swims, a few beach days, and local summer camp adventures mixed in!

Backyard fun!

“This summer we visited family and friends in Michigan where we spent a lot of time in nature — climbing sand dunes, swimming in the lake all day, watching the sun set and the fireflies come out.”

“A highlight this summer was to participate in Peninsula’s Summer Program. Our daughter thoroughly enjoyed it and the three-weeks were really memorable for her.”

Building sandcastles at Venice beach.

Picking the first strawberry of the season from the backyard!

Enjoying a day at Shark Fin Cove.

08/07/2026

They left our 8th grade classrooms in 2022 and now they’re preparing for the next chapter in their educational journeys. We’re so proud of Peninsula’s Class of 2022 as they pursue college this fall both near and far.

Congratulations to our alumni beginning their next chapter at the following schools (partial list):

Alanus Hochschule (in Germany)
Boston College
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Cañada College
Oberlin
Penn State (x2)
Pomona College
San Diego State (x2)
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
UC Berkeley (x3)
UC Davis
UC San Diego
University of Massachusetts
University of Michigan
University of San Diego

We’re so proud of you - go get it. 📚

08/04/2026

Our staff’s summers held a little bit of everything - travel, rest, time with family, and for some, big life moments too. Here’s a glimpse of what some Peninsula staff got up to this summer ➡️

Matison (5th) got married! 💍💐She and her new husband, Tomas ‘06, were married under the redwood trees in Gualala, CA. They were joined by some of Tomas’ favorite educators from his childhood years spent at Peninsula School, including Nancy, Jerry, Rebecca, and Christy. We wish them a long and happy marriage!

Kristina (2nd grade) traveled to Oahu with her daughter. The blissful sounds of the natural world reminded her of why she loves teaching at Peninsula - she gets to share and encourage students to become upstanders for the environment and to take time to explore, learn, and care for our beautiful earth.

Johanna (Head of School) spent time watching the Valkyries with her college-aged daughter. She says ”I’ve been a WNBA fan for a long time. The day I gave birth to my daughter, I was supposed to attend a game. She’s been attending since she was just days old.”

Matt (PE) got engaged! Congratulations to the happy couple! 💍

Aran (8th grade) found it surprisingly fun to shovel a ton of dirt while listening to the lyrical genius of Olivia Rodrigo’s latest album on repeat.

Michele (Admissions & Enrollment) spent two weeks in Kenya where she came up close with some Big 5 game animals and pretended to be a National Geographic photographer.

Masa (Preschool, Childcare & Enrichment) had a wonderful time with family in Croatia and Malta. Toma, Iva, Kai, and Masa also enjoyed a special trip to New York to see Anaïs Mitchell’s Hadestown - a truly fantastic musical experience!

Alexandra (Weaving) made the leap from long-time Summer at Peninsula teacher to Co-Director of the program.

Shu (Ceramics) visited Spain, France and Germany for a month with family and friends where she visited museums, galleries and spotted a wooden ship that reminded her of our ship in the Rainbow play yard. 🏴‍☠️

07/30/2026

As our minds start drifting toward the new school year, it’s worth taking a look back at the final days of last school year to our annual staff vs 8th grade kickball game. Staff kept the silly hat tradition alive and the ball stuck in the tree eventually came down.

We wish the Class of 2026 nothing but the best as they embark on their high school journeys and hope they carry a little of this joy and silly spirit with them along the way.

06/24/2026

We love having so many wonderful alumni back on campus for summer. They bring the energy, the fun, and the magic that is Summer at Peninsula. 😎💚🌳

06/11/2026

As we close out another memorable school year at Peninsula School, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our outgoing Board members (Justin McCarthy, Nina Greenblatt, Davion Fleming, Buddy James, and Maya Perkins (Not pictured)) for their extraordinary service, leadership, and commitment to our community.

Their thoughtful stewardship, generosity of time, and unwavering dedication have helped strengthen our school and advance our mission of creating a place where children thrive, discover their passions, and develop their full promise as confident contributors in the world.

Board service is often behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout every aspect of school life. We are deeply grateful for the wisdom, care, and vision these leaders have shared with Peninsula School.

On behalf of our students, families, staff, and fellow trustees, thank you for your partnership and service. Your contributions will leave a lasting legacy, and we look forward to continuing our connection with you as valued members of the Peninsula School community.

06/10/2026

Last week, we celebrated a milestone - the graduation of our Class of 2026 - our 100th graduating class! 🎓

Graduation at Peninsula doesn’t simply mark the end of 8th grade: it’s the culmination of countless experiences, relationships, discoveries, challenges, triumphs, and moments of growth that have unfolded over many years. It is a celebration of children becoming fully themselves.

As students shared reflections and memories during the ceremony, we were reminded that the impact of a Peninsula education extends far beyond academics. Their stories spoke of lifelong friendships, beloved teachers, camping trips, creative projects, music, freedom, adventure, laughter, and the many moments that helped shape who they are today. Some students recalled experiences from preschool and kindergarten; others joined our community later and quickly found a sense of belonging and connection. Together, their reflections painted a picture of a childhood rich with meaning, discovery, and joy.

One theme echoed throughout the day: the extraordinary relationships that define this community.

The love Peninsula has for its students is not something to take lightly. It is reflected in the way teachers know each child deeply, challenge them thoughtfully, celebrate their individuality, and remain invested in their lives long after they leave our campus. It was evident at graduation as retired teachers returned to celebrate alongside current staff, eager to see the children they once taught cross the stage and begin their next adventure. Their presence was a powerful reminder that the bonds formed here endure.

To the Class of 2026: thank you for your curiosity, your creativity, your kindness, your leadership, and your spirit.

It has been our privilege to learn alongside you and watch you grow. 💚

05/27/2026

This spring, Peninsula students did what Peninsula students do - they went camping! 🏕️

From Oak students who experienced an overnight on campus with a dance party, s’mores over a campfire and 4am wake-up - to middle schoolers who planned every meal, packed every bag, and negotiated who shared which tent, our camping program wrapped up another unforgettable year.

Our fall and spring camping trips are some of the most formative experiences in a Peninsula student’s year. As new skills are developed, kids discover they’re more capable than they imagined. Friendships deepen and confidence builds.

This is progressive education at its best. Our camping traditions have lasting impacts on children’s lives, building resilience and problem-solving skills they draw on for years. What a wonderful way to bookend the school year.🌲☀️

Address

920 Peninsula Way
Menlo Park, CA
94025

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 3pm
Tuesday	9am - 3pm
Wednesday	9am - 3pm
Thursday	9am - 3pm
Friday	9am - 3pm

Website

http://www.peninsulaschool.org/

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