Beyond the Test: Students Demonstrate Mastery and Growth in Da Vinci Presentations of Learning
At Da Vinci Schools, Presentations of Learning (POLs) are a defining part of the student experience. Instead of relying solely on traditional finals, students in grades TK-12 participate in timed oral presentations at the end of each semester or academic year. POLs give students the opportunity to reflect on their learning and growth, demonstrate mastery of essential skills aligned with state content standards, and articulate their understanding in ways that go far beyond test-taking. POLs also build students’ confidence and strengthen community as families, peers, and educators come together to celebrate each student’s journey.
Students often note that explaining their work aloud deepens understanding. As one Da Vinci Design student reflected, “When you have to talk through your process, you realize whether you really understand it or not.” Another described POLs as a space where learning feels visible, allowing them to “actually explain what you know, instead of just circling an answer.”
These presentations encourage ownership of learning while building confidence, communication skills, critical thinking, and self-reflection. Modeled after real-world professional experiences, students dress professionally, maintain a cell-phone-free environment, and step into the spotlight with pride. Alumni consistently say that POLs were among the most valuable parts of their Da Vinci experience, preparing them for college and career by developing public speaking, clear communication, and professional presentation skills.
Research shows that project-based learning, including presentations for authentic audiences, improves engagement, academic performance, and real-world competencies such as collaboration and communication.
“POLs give students the chance to share their learning and receive real feedback, building the skills they need to succeed beyond the classroom,” said Michelle Rainey, Da Vinci’s Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. “Presenting to authentic audiences is a cornerstone of our project-based learning approach, connecting what students learn in school to real-world experiences and meaningful community engagement.”
This semester, POLs at Da Vinci Design highlighted the diverse ways students can demonstrate mastery:
- 11th Grade English – Literature Through Creativity: In Joseph Campanelli’s class, students explored Macbeth by turning meaningful quotes into visual art linked to their essays, combining academic analysis with personal expression. One student shared that the creative process helped them articulate ideas they struggled to explain in writing.
- Algebra 2 – Learning From Mistakes: In Jennifer Shinn’s Algebra 2 class, students analyzed problems they had previously missed or taught new concepts to their panel, emphasizing understanding, reasoning, and growth over mere correctness.
- Ethnic Studies – Culture and Expression: In Mr. Myles’ Ethnic Studies class, students designed personalized artwork on athletic shoes to reflect their cultural identity, combining self-expression with meaningful reflection and learning.
Through POLs, Da Vinci students not only demonstrate academic mastery but also develop the essential skills, confidence, and voice needed to succeed in college, career, and life.
