Community Learning Days

We are excited to share that Community Learning Days (CLDs) are continuing for the 2025-26 school year, following the success of last year’s launch. We’re just one week away from our first CLD! These days provide more opportunities for students to come together across all our high schools while offering choice and flexibility in how and where learning takes place.

Community Learning Days are designed to enrich the high school educational experience and foster a deeper sense of connection between students at Da Vinci Communications, Connect High, Design, RISE, and Science. CLDs advance our Da Vinci Schools’ vision of empowering a new generation of students prepared to lead, innovate, and thrive in the modern world where learning can happen both within and beyond the school walls.

CLDs will take place four times this school year —September 23, November 10, February 13, and April 24 — offering a unique blend of community, connection, flexibility, creativity, and accountability for both students and staff.

What are Community Learning Days?
CLDs give students and families a menu of choices:

• Optional On-Campus Learning (8:30 am–12:30 pm at our 201 N. Douglas St. campus): Students join peers from across all Da Vinci high schools for hands-on workshops, career and college readiness, community service opportunities, and more.
• Off-Campus Learning: Students can experience the benefits of “leaving to learn” such as participating in college and career visits, community service, internships, and job shadows. Students can also use this time to catch up or get ahead on schoolwork, explore a career or hobby. A parent/guardian permission slip is required for off-campus learning.

Breakfast and lunch will be available for all students on Community Learning Days—whether they participate in on-campus or off-campus learning. 

Why are we continuing CLDs?
Based on overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, families, and staff last year, CLDs proved to be a powerful way to:

• Build connections across all high schools
• Provide meaningful choice and flexibility in learning
• Support student and staff well-being

How does it work?
Students have been learning about CLDs during Advisory classes. Students and families have until the end of today (Sept. 16) to make their on-campus workshop request (Note: Only students have access to the form through their DV account). Students and parents will be notified of their approved selection on Sept. 18.

Students are expected to plan their activities thoughtfully and productively. Learning progress will be tracked in Canvas to ensure the day is both enjoyable and meaningful. All students will be required to verify attendance whether they participate in on-campus or off-campus learning. 

On-Campus Learning Opportunities
Students may select from a variety of offerings, including:

• Community Service
• Career Exploration
• Sports & Fitness
• Arts, Creativity & Performance

We are thrilled to continue Community Learning Days in 2025-26. CLDs have already shown their power to foster joy, connection, and meaningful learning experiences, and we look forward to building on that success this year!