Education
The Primary School in East Palo Alto Closes After a Decade, CZI Shifts Focus
The Primary School, co-founded in 2016 by Priscilla Chan in East Palo Alto, California, with support from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI), ceased operations in June. The private school, which charged tuition, aimed to support low-income families by providing comprehensive services such as dental checkups, wellness coaching, and early-intervention screenings. Over ten years, CZI contributed more than $125 million to the school.
Despite significant support services and community engagement, the school's academic performance frequently did not meet state standards, which complicated efforts to replicate its model in public and charter schools. In April 2025, the school's board unanimously voted to close after learning that CZI would discontinue funding beyond the 2025-26 academic year. Board president Jean-Claude Brizard stated that the decision aligned with the largest funder's direction. A CZI spokesperson clarified that the closure was the board's decision and that CZI's focus had shifted towards scientific research.
This closure reflects a broader change in CZI's philanthropic strategy, moving away from social issues to concentrate on scientific research. CZI had previously informed staff that funding for social advocacy work was being scaled back to align with its science-oriented philanthropy. Brizard noted that the timing of the board's vote, relative to Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan's attendance at President Trump's inauguration, was an unfortunate coincidence, and CZI stated there was no evidence of the inauguration influencing the board's decision.
The school faced challenges, including high principal turnover and structural issues. While academic results often fell short of state norms, students showed improvements in well-being, socio-emotional skills, and health outcomes. Approximately 85% of students received annual well-child visits, compared to 55% of children on Medicaid in the county.
At the time of the closure announcement, nearly 540 children were enrolled across two campuses. Parents expressed distress over the decision. The Ravenswood City Elementary School District is preparing for an increase in enrollment. To assist with the transition, CZI pledged $50 million, which will cover the school's lease, support local groups, and provide education savings accounts for families. Priscilla Chan acknowledged that outcomes were not where "anyone would have wanted them to be."