WHAT is a Charter School?
A charter school is a public school funded with taxpayer money at no extra cost to parents and families. Charter schools are tuition-free. It is operated by parents, educators and community members through a governing board. The local school district must approve the “charter,” based upon the charter school’s proposal. Charter schools are open to anyone, are non-sectarian and non-religious and do not discriminate in their admission policies. Charter schools are directly responsible to their chartering agency. Academie Da Vinci Charter School is chartered through Pinellas County School Board. Charters must also meet or exceed state academic standards and must abide by state statutes for all public schools.
WHY were charter schools created?
Parents were looking for an alternative to the services provided by neighborhood schools. They were usually motivated by the perception that their child was at risk, either by “falling through the cracks” and/or in their view, not being academically challenged. There was considerable frustration about not being heard and responded to by the “system.” Charter schools enabled parents to take their child’s education into their own hands along with the work, risk and responsibility to provide this education for them at or above district/state standards.
HOW is Academie Da Vinci Charter School different from neighborhood schools?
Students are required to wear uniforms as regulated by a dress code which reinforces the academic atmosphere and our Code of Conduct, emphasizing respect for individuals and property. Class size is smaller than most schools, averaging 18-22 students per teacher. Parent involvement plays a great part at ADV, through active volunteerism at the school and monitoring of homework at home.
The school follows a traditional calendar and traditional bell schedule for our middle schoolers. ADV’s Board of Directors is comprised of nine community members. The Governing Board establishes school policy which the school leaders carry out.
WHAT other benefits would my child gain from attending Academie Da Vinci Charter School?
- Personalized Attention: With smaller class sizes and individualized attention from staff, your child can receive tailored support to address their unique learning needs and challenges. Teachers can better understand your child’s strengths and weaknesses, fostering a more personalized learning experience.
- Strong Sense of Community: Academie Da Vinci fosters a close-knit community where students, teachers, and parents work together towards common goals. This supportive environment encourages collaboration, teamwork, and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for academic and personal growth.
- Emphasis on Character Development: In addition to academic excellence, the school places a strong emphasis on character education. Through various programs and initiatives, students learn important values such as respect, responsibility, integrity, and empathy, which are essential for success both inside and outside the classroom.
- Development of Critical Life Skills: Academie Da Vinci equips students with essential life skills that go beyond traditional academics. By encouraging problem-solving, self-reflection, and accountability, the school prepares students to navigate real-world challenges with confidence and resilience.
- Consistent Expectations and Accountability: The school’s unique behavior management policy ensures that expectations are clear and consistent across all grade levels. This helps students develop a strong sense of responsibility and accountability for their actions, fostering a positive and respectful school culture.
- Individualized Support for Behavior Management: In cases where behavioral issues arise, the school takes a proactive and individualized approach to address them. By involving students in problem-solving and providing escalated consequences, when necessary, Academie Da Vinci promotes positive behavior while also teaching valuable conflict resolution skills.
- Transparent Communication with Parents: Parents are kept informed about their child’s progress and any behavioral concerns through regular communication via phone calls or emails. This open and transparent communication strengthens the partnership between parents and the school, ensuring that all stakeholders are actively involved in supporting student success.
Overall, Academie Da Vinci Charter School offers a holistic approach to education that prioritizes academic excellence, character development, and individualized support, providing your child with a well-rounded and enriching learning experience.
WHO can enroll at ADV?
Any child who resides in Pinellas County can enroll at ADV. As a public school, there is no tuition. New enrollees in grades K-8th may fill out an Intent to Enroll on our website for the upcoming school year starting October 1st through January. Please check our Enrollment page for accurate dates and our electronic enrollment application.
HOW do I contact ADV?
Please call us at 727-298-2778. We look forward to hearing from you! See the difference ADV can make in your child’s life!
