More info released on Hall da Vinci program

GAINESVILLE - The Hall County School System has outlined details for a series of parent information meetings to be held later this month on a new a new arts and sciences program to be offered beginning this fall.

Plans for the da Vinci Academy (DVA), which will be for 6th- and 7th-graders and will be housed at South Hall Middle School, were discussed by the school board earlier this week. (See earlier story. Link below.)

School officials have now released details of plans for four parent information meetings at which applications, which must be returned by May 4, will be distributed.

The meetings will be held as follows:

· Monday, April 20, 7:00 pm, Hall County Schools Central Office

· Tuesday, April 21

o 11:00 am, Hall County Schools Central Office

o 7:00 pm, South Hall Middle School

· Thursday, April 23, 7:00 pm, West Hall Middle School

"The da Vinci Academy is a program of choice that uses student interest in the arts and/or sciences as the foundation for advanced learning in all content areas," Schools Superintendent Will Schofield said. "One hundred twenty students will be selected to work closely with six multi-talented, creative teachers who will guide the students in developing deep understanding of subject matter through direct instruction and collaborative exploration and discovery."

In addition, according to Schofield, adjunct professional scientists and artists will join the DVA learning community to work with small groups and individual students in their areas of interest.

"It is the goal of the DVA to instill in young people lifelong intellectual curiosity and commitment to learning by building an extraordinary educational foundation on their strengths and interests. The dual emphasis on rigorous academic standards and creative productivity will support a dynamic environment that inspires authentic learning, motivation, innovation, and enjoyment."