DaVinci Connection

May 22, 2026

Assistant Principal Updates & Insights

Rude vs. Mean vs. Bullying

This spring, I had the opportunity to visit all of the elementary classrooms with Dr. Murphy, the Elementary Principal, to talk about the difference between rude, mean, and bullying behaviors. We defined the differences to students and talked through examples. The purpose of the presentations was to have common language and a shared understanding of these terms/behaviors.

Below are the different definitions and examples:

Rude: Accidentally saying or doing something that hurts feelings or embarrasses others; examples include burping, bragging, getting into someone’s personal space, etc.

Mean: Saying or doing something on purpose to hurt someone once or twice; examples include pushing/shoving someone, criticizing someone for their looks, stealing someone’s belongings, etc.

Bullying: Behavior that is on purpose, repeated over time, and involves an imbalance of power; examples include physical, verbal, friendship, or cyberbullying.

We concluded all of these classroom conversations with a discussion about how we want to treat each other at DaVinci Academy. There was much discussion about SPARK - Success, Positive Attitude, Responsibility, and Kindness. I encourage you to ask your child about all of these terms!

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On a personal note, it has been such a joy to spend my first year as Assistant Principal here at DaVinci. Getting to know the students, staff, and families has been the highlight of my year. This truly is a remarkable community. As part of the Student Success Team (SST), I work alongside teachers and students every day to make sure school feels safe, welcoming, and full of opportunity for every student. I'd love to connect with you; please feel free to reach out anytime!

Dr. Trish Harvey

Assistant Principal

Sprout Back to School Supplies

🎒✨ School Supply Shopping = DONE!

Hi DaVinci Academy families!

We’ve partnered with Sprout School Supplies to make back-to-school prep simple and stress-free.

Skip the crowds, skip the lists just order your student’s 2026–27 supply kit today and enjoy a worry-free summer knowing everything will be ready to go!

✔️ Fast
✔️ Easy
✔️ Ready for Open House

Take it off your plate now and thank yourself later.

Go to www.sproutsupplies.com and use school code DAAS268.

Mental Health Minute

Summer break is almost here! While it’s a great time for kids to relax and recharge, it’s also an opportunity to keep them engaged, active, and connected to meaningful learning experiences.

Here are a few simple tips to help your family have a fun and balanced summer:

Keep a Routine

Children thrive with consistency, especially during the summer months. A flexible routine with regular sleep schedules, outdoor time, reading, and family connection can help kids feel more regulated and make the transition back to school easier in the fall.

Click here to learn more about how to create and maintain a routine this summer.

Stay Active

Physical activity supports both physical and mental well-being. Look for free or low-cost opportunities in your neighborhood, such as:

Parks and playgrounds
Bike rides or family walks
Splash pads and community pools
Library and community events
Backyard games and outdoor play

Keep Learning Fun

Learning can happen through everyday activities! Reading, cooking, journaling, crafts, nature walks, audiobooks, and family outings are all great ways to keep kids curious and engaged over the summer.

Explore Summer Camps & Programs

Summer camps and community programs can help children build friendships, confidence, and new skills. Local community education programs, libraries, and parks & recreation departments offer a variety of affordable options for kids of all ages and interests.

Click here to access a database of summer camps in our community and greater metro area. You can filter results by student age, location, and price, to find the right fit for your family.

Most importantly, summer does not need to be perfectly planned to be meaningful. Time spent playing, exploring, resting, and connecting with family can make a lasting impact.

Wishing your family a safe, fun, and memorable summer! ☀️

A Note from the Health Office

As we prepare for the end of the school year, families of students who have medications stored in the Health Office will receive an End-of-Year Medication Permission Slip via email.

Please complete and return this form as soon as possible so we can ensure your student’s medication is handled according to your preference (sent home with your student, picked up by a parent/guardian, or destroyed on your behalf).

If you have any questions or need a paper copy sent home, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Health Office.

Thank you for your prompt attention and partnership!

Cassie Johnson, BSN, RH, PHN, LSH

School Nurse

Office: (763) 754-6577, ext. 1110

cjohnson@davincicharterschool.org

PTO News and Updates

May DaVinner

Thanks for hanging in there while we wrap up the details for this month’s DaVinner. We’ll share everything with you as soon as it’s finalized!

End-of-Year Carnival

The End-of-the-Year Carnival is almost here! Join us on Friday, June 5, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. for a super fun evening with carnival games, bounce houses, food trucks, a DJ, and more. All activities are free! The PTO puts on this event each year, and volunteers are a huge part of making it awesome. We’ll be sending out more info soon on how you can help.

June Public PTO Meeting
Our June public meeting has been moved to Wednesday, June 3. We’ll meet at 4:30 p.m. in Room 304. We’d love to see you there!

Executive Board Election Update
According to PTO bylaws, Executive Board Officers serve two-year terms. This year, the President and Secretary positions are up for re-election. Nominations are now closed, and voting will take place at the June 3 Public Meeting.