Hi DVC Families,
We are looking forward to the opportunity to prepare students on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday for their Presentations of Learning (known as POLs). POLs begin on Thursday, 12/9 and continue through Thursday, 12/16. Most students will have two presentations (2 classes in one presentation, and 2 classes in another presentation). Each presentation will be scheduled on a separate date, so no student is expected to do two presentations on the same date. All information regarding dates and schedules will come from the student’s grade-level teachers during the “POL Prep” class on Monday. Click here for an overview of all policies and procedures related to this semester’s POLs.
One of the expectations for a Presentation of Learning is that students come in professional dress. At DVC, professional dress is defined as including the following:
- Button-down dress shirt (shirt must be tucked in) or or non-revealing blouse (must cover shoulders); Suit jacket (optional)
- Khaki pants or dress pants (no jeans); Dress or skirt that touches tops of knees when standing up straight
- Closed-toe dress shoes (no sneakers or excessively high heels)
- Hair should not cover the face
We understand that many families may not be able to put together attire that meets these standards in a short timeline. In order to help our families, the DVC staff is going through their closets this weekend in search of items that can be donated to students in need of professional attire. If you have clothing or shoes that meet these requirements and that you no longer need, please consider donating them to DVC. We will accept donations of professional clothing to our Wolves’ Den (which is the big conference room table at the top of the orange stairs upon entering the 3rd floor), and we welcome students to see if there is something donated that fits their need. We are hopeful that this professional clothing exchange helps us work together as a community to ensure that each student feels comfortable and confident in their presentation!
Parents & Guardians: We also know that Presentations of Learning (POLs) can be a stressful time for students and their families. The two most important things you can do to help your student during their POL is (1) assure them that it is ok to make mistakes and (2) have them practice their POL many times to as many people in your household as possible. And finally, if you are interested in watching your student’s POL, please contact their teachers and let them know. We would like to be sure that you don’t miss this opportunity. Also, please note the visitor policy if you plan to attend: Visitors to Da Vinci Schools must show proof of either a COVID vaccination or negative PCR/Antigen test (taken within the last 72 hours) in addition to wearing a face covering while indoors to ensure the safety of our school community.
Students: Please know that this presentation, while important, is mainly an opportunity to practice public speaking in front of a live audience. This is an important skill to develop, and teachers understand that you have not had a chance to practice many live presentations due to the pandemic. We ask you to do your best, but we are not expecting perfection. Please practice your presentation for your friends and family as many times as you possibly can. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel on the day of your presentations.
We enter the final two weeks of school for the semester tomorrow. This is the time to encourage students to do their best and put in their best effort at the finish line! Students, we’re all cheering for you!
Warmly,
Erin D’Souza
Principal