Where Neuroscience-Based Learning Helps Children Thrive

A globally awarded Pre-K–8 micro-school with small learning groups, AI powered personalization, and real-world education.

Mentors for life

Our Programs

01

Early Years (Ages 2-6)

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Cultivating the foundational neural pathways for literacy, logic, and lifelong intellectual curiosity—while fostering holistic intellectual, physical, and social development that shapes confident, well-rounded minds.

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Elementary (Grades 1-5)

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An accelerated curriculum focused on deep conceptual mastery and the application of cross-disciplinary knowledge.

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Middle School (Grades 6-8)

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Fostering intellectual autonomy through academic rigor, leadership development, and real-world entrepreneurship challenges.

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The Early Years advantage

Unlocking potential when it matters most

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Integrated Music and Suzuki Violin instruction
Social-emotional learning through the Masterminds Code
Trilingual immersion (English and French with a choice between Spanish or Mandarin)
Hands-on, foundational literacy and math
Expert educators with deep early childhood training and experience
Daily physical activity, including Swimming, Gymnastics and Ball Skills
The earliest years of life represent a powerful window of opportunity for brain development. At Masterminds, our award-winning Preschool, Pre-K and Kindergarten programs are intentionally designed to foster intellectual, physical and social growth — providing young children with a strong foundation to thrive long-term. 
Our neuroscience-based curriculum seamlessly integrates literacy, math, languages, music and movement within a joyful, nurturing environment. By the time they enter Grade 1, many students are years ahead — academically, emotionally and socially — equipped with the confidence and skills for lifelong success.

A Research Collaboration with the Wharton Neuroscience Initiative.

— Advancing Education Through Neuroscience

We are proud to announce a research collaboration with the Wharton Neuroscience Initiative at the University of Pennsylvania—one of the world’s leading centers for neuroscience.

This collaboration focuses on advancing the scientific research that strengthens the foundations of Masterminds' neuroscience-driven educational model, exploring how the science of the brain shapes early learning, creativity, and lifelong success.

- At Masterminds, learning isn’t just inspired by science, it’s grounded in it.

What if school was designed the way children actually learn?

Traditional schools were created over 150 years ago to train obedient factory workers for an industrial economy. One teacher standing in front of 20 to 30 students delivering the same lesson to all, remains the dominant model—even in many elite private schools.

The result? Large class sizes, rigid instruction and minimal alignment with how children truly learn.

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Our globally recognized micro-school model delivers:

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Awards & Recognition

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Our programs have been recognized by leading institutions for innovation, academic excellence, and whole-child development. Highlights include:

Global Game Changers Award 2021

– for Education Innovation

Best Early Education Provider

– awarded for 9 consecutive years by an international panel under the Business Excellence Awards

Global Game Changers Award 2022

– for Education Innovation

ACQ5 Global Awards 2025

– Innovation Category

GSV Ventures' Elite 200

– Recognized as one of the top global EdTech companies

Our programs have been recognized by leading institutions for innovation, academic excellence, and whole-child development. Highlights include:

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Concierge Transportation from Key Bay Area Neighborhoods

Masterminds offers premium door-to-door transportation for families in Palo Alto, Atherton, Hillsborough, Menlo Park, San Mateo, Portola Valley, and surrounding areas—ensuring your child’s learning journey is seamless from the moment they leave home.

Our Philosophy

Neuroscience meets experience

We integrate neuroscience with over 60 years of child development research to create an evidence-based, effective learning environment.

Our Philosophy

The ATHENA+ framework

The ATHENA+ Framework is designed to develop intellectual, physical, and social excellence through a purposeful blend of core academics, enrichment, and life skills.

At Masterminds, academics and life skills go hand in hand. Our interdisciplinary approach ensures students connect knowledge across subjects, apply it in real-world contexts, and develop the curiosity, confidence, and critical thinking to lead in an ever-changing world.

Our Philosophy

In-Person, Deep learning

We emphasize face-to-face instruction and encourage deep thinking—moving beyond memorization to meaningful understanding and personal engagement.

Our Philosophy

Mentors for life

Our teachers are not just instructors—they are expert guides and lifelong mentors who inspire confidence, curiosity and personal growth.

Mentors for life
In-Person, Deep learning
The ATHENA+ framework
Neuroscience meets experience
Our Philosophy

Neuroscience meets experience

Neuroscience meets experience

We integrate neuroscience with over 60 years of child development research to create an evidence-based, effective learning environment.

Our Philosophy

The ATHENA+ framework

The ATHENA+ framework

The ATHENA+ Framework is designed to develop intellectual, physical, and social excellence through a purposeful blend of core academics, enrichment, and life skills.

At Masterminds, academics and life skills go hand in hand. Our interdisciplinary approach ensures students connect knowledge across subjects, apply it in real-world contexts, and develop the curiosity, confidence, and critical thinking to lead in an ever-changing world.

Our Philosophy

In-Person, Deep learning

In-Person, Deep learning

We emphasize face-to-face instruction and encourage deep thinking—moving beyond memorization to meaningful understanding and personal engagement.

Our Philosophy

Mentors for life

Mentors for life

Our teachers are not just instructors—they are expert guides and lifelong mentors who inspire confidence, curiosity and personal growth.

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Why Parents Choose Masterminds

92
%

of parents cite personalized learning as their top priority.

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%

of students are identified as gifted in multiple domains after just three years in our Early Years Program.

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years ahead — students frequently outperform traditional curriculum benchmarks.

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From Dubai to the bay area and beyond

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Founded in Dubai, Masterminds has been recognized as the Best Early Education Provider for nine consecutive years. With micro-school campuses launching across the U.S. and Europe, families can now access a truly global educational journey.

Now open

Coming soon

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Location One

Location One

Still have questions?

Contact our support team for further assistance.