It’s that time of year when we start thinking about class lists for next year. I wanted to take the opportunity to explain the process of class assignments at DaVinci Academy. It is our goal to place students in a classroom that will best meet their needs. To do that, we balance classes based on gender, academic skills in math and reading, behaviors, and students receiving special services. Due to all of these factors, we will not be accepting specific teacher requests.
Our policy on not accepting specific teacher requests is based on the following rationale:
- Children will have many teachers throughout their educational careers and need to learn how to adjust to different personalities and environments.
We can’t accept teacher requests so that children can be with their friends. However, each year provides new opportunities to make new friends. Grade levels have lunch and recess together each day, so children have plenty of time to see their friends.
We want to create equity for all of our students and maintain balanced classrooms that are optimal for learning.
Our grade-level teachers collaborate and regularly share ideas and strategies and support students as a team. This means that each child benefits from the knowledge and ideas of all of our teachers, not just one.
I am very confident in all of our teachers here at DVA. If you have any questions or want to discuss the classroom placement process, please contact me at jmurphy@davincicharterschool.org. Again, thank you for all of your support. Your partnership ensures that our students at DaVinci Academy of Arts and Science find success!
MCA Testing is Coming Up!
Next week begins our schedule for taking the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs). We will start with students in grades 3-5 taking the reading test. Classroom teachers will share specific testing dates with you. These assessments are just one way to measure learning. They are state-mandated, so we encourage students to be well-rested, have a quality breakfast, and be present so they can do their very best! Over the next few weeks, we will also be administering the 3-5 math MCAs, 6-8 reading and math MCAs, and the 5th & 8th grade science MCAs.
For some students, testing can be an exciting challenge, while for others, it may bring stress and anxiety. At DaVinci Academy, we recognize the importance of assessments like the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA), which provide valuable insight into student learning and help us tailor our support. MCA testing for grades 3-8 will take place on select days throughout April, beginning on April 8 for grades 3-5. (please note that results are typically released in late summer or early fall).
To help students feel confident and prepared, we have attached some helpful test-taking tips below. Be sure to review this important information!
In the meantime, here are a few key ways to support your child:
- Ensure they get a good night’s sleep before testing days.
- A nutritious breakfast can make a big difference in focus and energy.
- Encourage a positive mindset—remind them to do their best and stay calm.
- Attendance is important! Students do best when testing with their peers. However, if your child is sick, we have make-up testing days available.
- Listening carefully to instructions is crucial—teachers will provide guidance on breaks, electronics, and other testing procedures.
Above all, we encourage families to help students approach the test with confidence and a sense of readiness. Your support at home makes a difference, and we appreciate all you do to help your child succeed!
Happy Learning,
Dr. Jessica Murphy, Elementary Principal
Dr. Rick Halley, Middle School Principal
April 7 - Grades 7&8
Author Visit: Huda Fahmy at DaVinci Academy! We're excited to welcome Huda Fahmy to DaVinci Academy on April 8! Seventh and eighth graders will get the chance to hear from this acclaimed author and illustrator as she shares insights into her creative process and the stories behind her engaging graphic novels.
Author visits at DaVinci Academy are free for students, but they are made possible through book sales. We encourage families to support these events by purchasing a signed copy of Huda’s books through Red Balloon Bookshop. Orders are due by March 31, and books will be delivered to the school on the day of the visit. Simply click on the book images in the order form and submit one form per book.
Huda Fahmy is a National Book Award finalist known for her humorous and heartfelt graphic novels, including Huda F Cares. A former English teacher, she now writes about her experiences as a visibly Muslim woman in America.
Thank you for supporting author visits at DaVinci—your book purchases help keep these inspiring events happening for our students!
Sign-Up Today!
Registration is now open for DaVinci Academy’s Spring Golf Scramble! Gather your team and join us for a great day of golf - all to support our awesome school.
đź“ť REGISTER TODAY!
đź“… Friday, May 16, 2025
⛳ Refuge Golf Course
🏌️ Noon Start
Standard Ticket - $100/golfer: Includes golf, driving range, dinner, on-course games (longest drive, closest to the pin, longest put, etc)
Super Ticket - $125/golfer: Includes all standard registration items - PLUS BONUS ITEMS: 2 Mulligans, 10 Raffle Tickets, $10,000 Hole-in-One Opportunity.
