DaVinci Connection

At DaVinci Academy, the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. Part of that commitment is ensuring that everyone students, staff, and families understands the common language we use during emergencies. This shared language helps us respond quickly, calmly, and effectively when the unexpected occurs.

DaVinci Academy is happy to announce School Spirit First Fridays!

Beginning in December, on the first school-day Friday of the month, all students are invited to wear school spirit gear with their uniform bottoms!

All school spirit wear is allowed on these days… wear your Student Council, Battle of the Books, Basketball, Volleyball, Academic Bowl, theater, etc. shirts.

Show off that DVA pride!

As the temperatures drop, we’re seeing all the classic signs of Minnesota winter weather: dry air, chapped lips, and stuffy noses! Here are a few reminders to keep our students healthy and comfortable this season:

Stay Hydrated and Moisturized

Cold weather can lead to dry skin and chapped lips. Please encourage your student to drink plenty of water while they are at school, and home, and pack lip balm and lotion in their backpack. This helps them to stay comfortable and reduces unnecessary Health Office visits during the day, helping them to stay in class learning!

Healthy Habits Matter

Cold and flu season is here. Please keep your student home if they are sick or not feeling well enough to participate in school activities. Remind them to cover their coughs and sneezes, and to wash or sanitize their hands. Water bottles should also be washed at least weekly to prevent the spread of germs.

Asthma Action Plans and Medications

If your student has asthma, please ensure their medications and updated Asthma Action Plan are on file with the Health Office. If your student is currently in their “Yellow Zone” and requires their inhaler during the school day, please email us so we can add them to our daily schedule temporarily.

As always, thank you for partnering with us to keep our students safe, healthy, and ready to learn this season!

Stay well,

Cassie Johnson, RN

School Nurse

DaVinci Academy of Arts and Science

(763) 754-6577, Ext. 1110

cjohnson@davincicharterschool.org

CEMS at Blaine High School offers a rigorous program in math, science, and engineering for students in multiple districts.

WHAT IS CEMS?

• CEMS stands for Center for Engineering Mathematics Science at Blaine High School.

• The program prepares students for post-secondary education and various career options.

WHO CAN JOIN CEMS?

• Open to incoming 9th and 10th graders from seven specific school districts.

• Transportation is provided for eligible students.

The 2026-27 Lottery Application will be open from October 15-December 17th, 2025.

The character trait for December is Empathy.

Empathy means we understand how another person is feeling, and might even feel it with them. Practicing empathy helps us improve our listening skills, increase our communication, and grow healthy, strong relationships.

Empathy looks like actively listening to peers, offering kind words of support when someone is upset, considering others' perspectives, asking open-ended questions to understand feelings, and responding with understanding rather than immediate judgment, all while demonstrating positive body language and nonverbal cues that show concern and care.

Students may receive a character award and recognition for displaying this trait at school during the month of December.

Mental Health Arts Performance

Fluff, the Duckling Who Wouldn’t Swim: Helping Students Manage Worries

Recently, our Kindergarten, First, and Second graders enjoyed a fun and interactive puppet show from the Speaking Out Collective. “Fluff, the Duckling Who Wouldn’t Swim” tells the story of a nervous duckling who isn’t quite ready to jump into the pond—and how gentle support, courage, and a little curiosity can make all the difference.

Through songs, storytelling, and student participation, our youngest learners explored what worry can feel like, and practiced simple, kid-friendly ways to handle those big feelings. Each student even received a mini “puppet kit” so they can make their own ducklings and continue practicing positive coping skills in the classroom.

A special thank-you to the North Suburban Kiwanis Club for generously sponsoring these performances and helping us bring meaningful experiences like this to our students. 🐤💛

Treat yourself to your favorite pizzas and pastries while supporting the PTO! Every order helps fund activities that directly benefit our teachers, students, and staff.

Key Dates:

• Ordering Open: Tuesday, Nov 11

• Ordering Closes: Tuesday, Dec 2

• Delivery: Wednesday, Dec 17, 3:30–6 PM

How to Order:
Orders are online only. Register your child using the DaVinci Academy Registration Link or QR code on the flyer. After registering, you’ll get a welcome email from “My Fundraising Place” with instructions to access the online store and share with friends.

Flyer & instructions: http://tinyurl.com/DVAPTObbpizzas2025

Don’t miss out—place your order by Dec 2!

Next PTO Meeting

Join us for our next PTO public meeting on December 1st at 4:30 PM in Ms. Severson's room (#304)

Explore how you can get involved with our next big event. We’re also looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join our Middle School Party or Carnival Committee. Your help can make a big difference!

For more information, send an email to pto@davincicharterschool.org.

December 1 –PTO Meeting Room 304 @ 4:30-5:30pm

December 2- Middle School Career Fair (during school hours)

December 4- Middle School Orchestra Concert 6:45-7:45pm

December 8- Board Meeting 6-9pm

December 9- Middle School Band Concert 6:45-7:45pm

December 11- Middle School Choir Concert 6:45-7:45pm

December 22-31- NO SCHOOL