How large are your classes?
Our maximum classroom size is 25 students with an average class size of 14.

Does it cost to attend?
As part of the free public school system, there are no fees associated with a charter school beyond those charged by any other public school such as book fees, lab fees, registration, etc. Fee waivers are also available.

What is the difference between a charter school and a public school?
Charter schools are actually public schools, but they differ by having a contract or ‘charter’ between the school and the Utah State Board of Education that sets forth the unique terms under which the school will operate. The charter school is accountable to the state board and must submit all scores to the state. Still, the school is able to operate more independently and with greater parental influence than those public schools that operate under the regular districts.

I’m already attending another school. Can I apply to DaVinci too?
You are welcome to apply to as many schools as you wish and choose which one you think best fits your needs. Even if you are already enrolled in a regular public school, a private school, OPA, NUAMES, or are home schooled, you may apply and transfer to DaVinci.

What is the curriculum emphasis at DaVinci? Are core classes offered?
The Utah State Core Curriculum provides the foundation and the minimum academic requirements for graduation, but DaVinci exceeds those standards while focusing on college preparation. As a magnet school for students interested in science, math, engineering and advanced technologies, added emphasis is placed on those subjects on top of a comprehensive and solid foundation in the liberal arts. A myriad of opportunities for internships in private industry also are provided.
DaVinci further emphasizes project-based learning, which allows students hands-on experience in scientific discovery and gives them a vehicle to apply their instructional learning in real-world applications. This emphasis culminates in the student's senior project—which focuses student research in an area of specific personal interest.

What advantages come from being located in the High Technology Business Park?
DaVinci Academy is the first in the nation to merge a high school directly into a business park campus. As the business park grows, professional adult-world connections will provide additional high technology facilities for advanced project-based learning, internships for students, and intimate links with the high-tech workplace.

I'm not sure I want to be a scientist. Is DaVinci still a good choice for me?
Any student will benefit from our program regardless of the field of study that interests them. Simply put, science is all around us and is prevalent in all facets of life whether we notice it or not. Even the arts and humanities are influenced by science, and students at DaVinci quickly discover this as they become scientifically literate. Likewise, the arts and humanities greatly enrich the perspectives of anyone pursuing science. Motivated students of all interests will find DaVinci an fascinating place to prepare for college and beyond.

What about lunch at DaVinci?
Students may bring their own meals or may purchase hot lunches on campus.

What are the demographics of DaVinci students?
Students who are serious about academics cross all socioeconomic and ethnic boundaries. DaVinci students come primarily from Weber and Davis counties and reflect the general demographic characteristics of northern Utah.

What extra-curricular activities are offered at DaVinci?
Our philosophy is to let student interest dictate the extra-curricular activities. Clubs and activities are created whenever groups of students show the necessary interest to form them.

What sports are offered at DaVinci?
Varsity sports will develop at DaVinci over time but are not yet available. However, we are negotiating with other schools to allow students to play on their sports teams. In the meanwhile we encourage intramural team participation wherever student interest lies.

What is the dress code at DaVinci?
At DaVinci Academy, the dress code is a teaching tool that matches the school’s mission of preparing students for the expectations of professionalism they’ll encounter in the high-technology workplace and at research universities. Because DaVinci students actually interview for internships and the school experiences random visits by industry employers, the dress code reflects the practical realities of the real business world and the immediacy of the here and now.

How are students selected?
As a public school of choice, students counsel with their parents and select themselves to attend DaVinci Academy. However, we do require that students and parents meet with administration for an orientation meeting so that students and parents understand what to expect and how to prepare. Placement exams will be administered to place students in level appropriate coursework, tailored to student needs and interests.

What happens if there are more applicants than space available? Are siblings given preference?
DaVinci Academy originally chartered for 500 students, however in order to keep our facilities open with a student commons area, we cap our current enrollment at 325 students. If the number of applicants exceeds available spaces, we will hold a lottery for new applicants. State law also provides for siblings of existing DaVinci students to be given priority over other new students.

What opportunities exist for parental involvement?
We strongly urge parents to be involved with both their student’s education and general happenings at the school. We ask that each of our students families contribute a minimum 20 hours in school service each academic year.  A Parent Teacher Organization exists that coordinates parental involvement and we strongly encourage all to participate. We cannot require parents to do so, but we welcome them and give every opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of students. Have a great idea for a benefit? club? field trip?  Call our parent volunteer coordinator, Kelly Freeze at 801-409-0708.