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Archives for 2024

Week 2 Schedule

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We had a terrific first week of school! You can enjoy lots of pictures of the first day from our awesome photographer, Stacee Lianna, at this link: First Day Photos 

Overnighter Recap: On Thursday and Friday, we adventured to the mountains with the awesome Class of 2028 to begin the school year with The Overnighter, a special trip to welcome our 9th graders to DVC. A video celebrating The Overnighter was put together by DVC Media Production Teacher, Tangier Clarke. You can check it out at this link: The DVC Class of 2028 Overnighter Slideshow 

Picture Days: Students will take their school pictures on Thursday, 8/29 and Friday, 8/30 during their English class. This means that if they have English during periods 1, 3, or 5, they will take their photo on Thursday. If they have English during periods 2, 4, or 6, they will take their photo on Friday. Makeup picture day is Thursday, 9/19.

Seminars Start Monday: Students are currently being enrolled in seminar classes. Seminars are elective periods that meet on Monday and Fridays (Period MF) or Tuesdays and Thursdays (Period TTH). We do our best to match students with their preferences. New printed schedules will be delivered to students during Period 5 on Monday. Students cannot request a change to their seminar classes until Wednesday, 8/28. If a student would like to request a seminar change, they can use this form when it opens on Wednesday, 8/28: DVC Schedule Change Request Form We will do our best to accommodate as many requests as possible. The form is only accessible by students through their DV google account. Students are required to attend the classes they are assigned unless they are given a new schedule by school staff.

Club Fair: Our annual Club Fair is coming up on Thursday, 9/5 and applications to start a new or returning club are now open! Students: Please fill out this CLUB APPLICATION if you wish to be a club leader this year. ALL clubs must complete an application; both new and returning clubs must apply. Clubs are not considered approved unless the student leader receives an approval email from school administration.

Absence Reporting Reminder: If your student is going to be absent, please email our Attendance Manager, Pattie Foxman, at pfoxman@davincischools.org or call the front office and leave a message: (310) 725-5800.

Metro Passes: Da Vinci Schools is participating in LA Metro’s GoPass Program again this year! This means any DVC student can receive a free Metrocard that, once activated, will allow them to ride on the Metro at no cost until June 30th. Students can pick up a card and instructions to activate their card from Jackie Martinez (jmartinez@davincischools.org) at the DVC Front Desk. Here is more information on the GoPass Program if you are interested.

Here’s what’s coming up THIS WEEK and beyond:

  • Thursday, 8/29: School Picture Day (during English class)
  • Friday, 8/30: School Picture Day (during English class)
  • Monday, 9/2: No School – Labor Day Holiday
  • Thursday, 9/5: Club Fair (complete a club application at this link)
  • Thursday, 9/12: Back to School Night @ 5:15pm in Black Box Theater
  • Friday, 9/13: No School – Professional Development Day

Bookmark these links for easy access to school information:

Sincerely,

Erin D’Souza

Principal, Da Vinci Communications

email: edsouza@davincischools.org

appointments: calendly.com/erin_dsouza

school website: dvc.davincischools.org

school: 310.725.5800 ext. 3043

cell: 310.350.7192

Enroll Now! Fall 2024 Da Vinci Schools/El Camino College Partnership Courses (Dual Enrollment)

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Good afternoon DVC students and parents,

Welcome back! This fall semester, Da Vinci Schools is offering 4 dual enrollment partnership courses with El Camino College. All courses are asynchronous online and start next week!

*VERY IMPORTANT*

Da Vinci Schools will be assisting with sign-ups by hosting an application workshop in the RWL Center computer lab on Monday 8/26 from 3:00pm-4:30pm. Students should know their SSN# (if they have one) and whether or not their family is considered a military family when they come.

To be eligible to take a dual enrollment class, the student will need to pass all their academic classes, have no credit recovery for a-g classes, and be a rising senior or junior student. Space is limited and we are accepting forms on a first come first serve basis!

AJ 100- Introduction to Administration of Justice
(Asynchronous, Online) – 3 units

This course introduces students to the characteristics of the criminal justice system in the United States. Focus is placed on examining crime measurement, theoretical explanations of crime, responses to crime, components of the system, and current challenges to the system. The course examines the evolution of the principles and approaches utilized by the justice system and the evolving forces which have shaped those principles and approaches. Although justice structure and process are examined in a cross context, emphasis is placed on the United States justice system, particularly the structure and function of police, courts, and corrections. Students are introduced to the origins and development of criminal law, legal process, sentencing, and incarceration policies.

9th-12th Grade students can enroll in this course

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BUS 101- Introduction to Business
(Asynchronous, Online) – 3 units

This course is a survey of organization and management factors influencing the establishment, location, and operation of businesses. This course emphasizes the functional area of accounting as well as the legal framework within which business activities are conducted. The course also emphasizes the principles of Total Quality Management (TQM) in a multicultural and globalized environment.

Only 11th and 12th Grade students can enroll in this course

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HDEV 110- Strategies for Success in College and Life
(Asynchronous, Online) – 3 units

HDEV 110 is designed to help students develop the skills, knowledge, and behaviors necessary for academic success and personal development. The course covers topics such as goal setting, time management, learning styles, study strategies, critical thinking, and self-awareness. Additionally, it addresses the social and emotional aspects of college life, including stress management, motivation, and interpersonal communication. The course encourages students to explore their educational and career goals while equipping them with tools to navigate the challenges of college and beyond.

Only 11th and 12th Grade students can enroll in this course

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FILM 110- Film Analysis and Appreciation
(Asynchronous, Online) – 3 units

This course provides an introduction to the art and language of film. It covers the critical analysis of film form, narrative structures, genres, and the historical development of cinema. The course explores the major elements of film, including cinematography, editing, sound, and production design, as well as the cultural, social, and ideological contexts in which films are made and received. Students will view and discuss a variety of films, developing skills in film analysis and an appreciation for the artistic and cultural significance of cinema.

Only 10th-12th Grade students can enroll in this course

 

 

If interested in signing up for the following classes, you can attend the application workshop OR schedule an appointment with Ms. Aldrete via Calendly before Monday, 8/26 in order to submit the Fall 2024 application on time:

https://calendly.com/aldretedvc

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For more information click on the following links:

Applying to El Camino College

Do I Need to Apply Again?

Application for Admission Help

Dual Enrollment Application

 

Best,

Mrs. Aldrete

College and Career Counselor

Week 1 Schedule

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Our First Day of School is Monday, August 19th! We start at 8:30am in the GYM and dismissal is at 3:35pm. Students should report to the gym for the first day of school. Students will then go to Advisory, where complete student schedules will be given out. 

For more information about this school year (including school supplies lists), please check out these resources:

Reporting Absences: If your student is going to be absent, please email our Attendance Manager, Pattie Foxman, at pfoxman@davincischools.org or call the front office and leave a message: (310) 725-5800.

Overnighter: The Class of 2028 leaves for The Overnighter on Thursday, August 22nd! Overnighter Permission Slips are due no later than Tuesday, August 20th to the front office. The Overnighter Leaders leave on Wednesday, August 21st to get ready to welcome the 9th graders. Class of 2028 & Families: Please review the linked information carefully in preparation for the trip: DVC Overnighter Info 9th Grade August 2024. This info sheet contains information about the following:

  • How to contact us in the event of emergency
  • What to pack for the trip
  • Expected departure and arrival times
  • Student cell phone use during the trip

Supporting Neurodiversity: DVC is focused on creating comfortable, enjoyable experiences for our neurodiverse population by priming, posting, and providing. We strive to do the following leading up to big events:

  • Prime: Share details before an event
  • Post: Inform DVC community via blog, social media, student news, etc.
  • Provide: Resources (ear plugs, quiet zones, designated breaks, staff support)

We want the first day of school to be a comfortable, fun experience for everyone. As such, here is some important information:

  • What to expect: loud volume, large crowd
  • What is available: earplugs & alternate entry / space *Before entering the gym/black box, look for the teacher holding a sign that states, “Too loud for you? Talk to me.” They will also have earplugs. 

Schedule Change Requests: If you notice an error in your schedule, please complete this Schedule Change Request Form. The form is only accessible by DVC students through their DV google account. Students are required to attend the classes they are assigned unless they are given a new schedule by school staff. Our school counselors are working hard to review each request and make changes accordingly. We ask for your patience as we work to ensure that each student has the classes they need. We aim to make all changes necessary within 2 school days of receiving the request.

Metro Passes: Da Vinci Schools is participating in LA Metro’s GoPass Program again this year! This means any DVC student can receive a free Metrocard that, once activated, will allow them to ride on the Metro at no cost until June 30, 2025. Students can pick up a card and instructions to activate their card from Jackie Martinez (jmartinez@davincischools.org) at the DVC Front Desk. Here is more information on the GoPass Program if you are interested.

PowerSchool: PowerSchool is our Student Information System, and the link to access PowerSchool is as follows: https://davincischools.powerschool.com/public You can find information about grades and attendance at this platform. At this time, access has been restored for students and families. Access to PowerSchool for parents and guardians will be distributed during Back to School Night on Thursday, September 12, 2024. 

Club Fair: Our annual Club Fair is coming up on Thursday, September 5th and applications to start a new or returning club are now open! Students: Please fill out this CLUB APPLICATION if you wish to be a club leader this year. ALL clubs must complete an application; both new and returning clubs must apply. Clubs are not considered approved unless the student leader receives an approval email from school administration.

Here’s what’s coming up THIS WEEK and beyond:

  • Monday, 8/19: First Day of School in 24-25 (calendar here)
  • Wednesday, 8/21: Overnighter Leaders Depart
  • Thursday, 8/22: 9th Graders Depart for The Overnighter
  • Friday, 8/23: 9th Graders & Leaders Return from The Overnighter
  • Thursday, 8/29: School Picture Day (during English class)
  • Friday, 8/30: School Picture Day (during English class)
  • Monday, 9/2: No School – Labor Day Holiday
  • Thursday, 9/5: Club Fair (complete a club application at this link)
  • Thursday, 9/12: Back to School Night @ 5:15pm in Black Box Theater
  • Friday, 9/13: No School – Professional Development Day

Bookmark these links for easy access to school information:

Wishing everyone a great first week of the 24-25 school year!

Sincerely,

 

Erin D’Souza

Principal, Da Vinci Communications

email: edsouza@davincischools.org

appointments: calendly.com/erin_dsouza

school website: dvc.davincischools.org

school: 310.725.5800 ext. 3043

cell: 310.350.7192

Welcome Back Webinar: Wednesday, 8/14 @ 5pm!

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Dear DVC Students and Parents/Guardians,

Please join us for a Welcome Back Webinar on Wednesday, August 14th @ 5pm: WELCOME BACK WEBINAR LINK

This webinar is for everyone (both new and returning students and families). We’ll cover a basic introduction to how things work at DVC as well as anything that’s new for this year.

This webinar will be recorded and sent out on Thursday, August 15th in case you are unable to participate live.

Looking forward to a great school year!

Sincerely,

Erin D’Souza, Principal

9th Grade Overnighter Information

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Dear DVC Class of 2028 Families,

We are thrilled to be getting ready for The Overnighter – a not-to-be-missed signature practice of Da Vinci Communications! This two-day, one-night trip is free of charge for our students, and we love that students get to start the school year with great memories and new friends. It is our hope that all 9th grade students will attend this special event. 9th grade students will depart on Thursday, August 22nd and return on Friday, August 23rd. More information about The Overnighter can be found at the following link: The Overnighter Info for Students & Families. We will also be having a 9th Grade Families Welcome Orientation on Friday, August 16th at 9am and you’re welcome to ask questions about The Overnighter at this event as well.

Please see below for an important message from our School Nurse, Titsyana Lucero, regarding The Overnighter. There are medication forms that must be completed for any student who needs medication during the trip. Hard copies of necessary forms can be picked up at 201 N. Douglas (first floor reception or third-floor DVC office) between 8:30 and 12:00 and also picked up or turned in during our 9th Grade Families Welcome Orientation on Friday, August 16th at 9am. Forms will also be available at the orientation and on the first day of school, and the due date for the forms is Tuesday, August 20th (the second day of school).

Important Message from our School Nurse:

Dear Parent/Guardian,

The 24-25 Da Vinci 9th graders will have the opportunity to attend an overnight field trip at Camp Pondo in August 2024. Since the field trip takes place during the first week of school, we want to give parents ample time to complete all forms and provide their student’s health information and any requested documentation to ensure that our students have a fun and safe time while there.

Your school administrators have attached the Permission Slip & Medical Information Form (REQUIRED, linked here – 2 sided, must be submitted by hard-copy) that must be completed if your child plans on attending this field trip. Please ensure that you include any current medical conditions and/or medical procedures or devices that should be made aware to the school nurse. Do not hesitate to reach out to discuss any health related concerns you may have in relation to the overnight trip.

Please note, ALL medications require the Medication Authorization Form (IF NEEDED, linked here – 2 sided, must be submitted by hard-copy) to be completed by a parent/guardian AND physician. This includes medications that your child might take before school, during the school day, and after school in the evening/night. This form must be completed for ALL prescriptions and over the counter medications. If your student requires over the counter medication such as Tylenol, ibuprofen, melatonin, Zyrtec allergy pills, etc. you will need to have a form completed for each and send medication with your student in its original container labeled with your students name (no over the counter medication will be provided by Da Vinci or available on site). The form also specifies if the medication can be self-carried/administered or if it requires storage and assistance from a trained Da Vinci staff member.

Once the forms are completed, they are valid for one year. This means the form can be used throughout your student’s school year for medications that they might need to take during school hours or field trips (inhaler, EpiPen, over the counter medications, daily medications).

Additionally, we would like to know if there are any dietary restrictions so that the chef can prepare for all students. Please enter any dietary restrictions at this link: Dietary Restrictions Form 

If you are unsure if your child will attend, it is still recommended that you complete these forms since they can be used during their school year if needed. If you have any specific medical concerns for your child during the Camp Pondo trip or school year, feel free to reach out to me directly to discuss.

Regards,

Titsyana Lucero RN, BSN| School Nurse- Da Vinci Schools

310-725-5800 ext. 1026

tlucero@davincischools.org

Da Vinci Health & Wellness Resources  –Da Vinci Schools Families Connected

Da Vinci Communications

201 N. Douglas St. – Floor 3

El Segundo, CA 90245

(310) 725-5800