History of LdVCS
"It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things." ~Leonardo da Vinci
When Clear View Charter Elementary School elected to surrender its charter and not seek renewal in 2008, the teachers and parents who believed strongly in the power of charter schools forged ahead to create the school of their dreams. This extremely determined group of teachers and parents devoted many hours of hard work in planning and developing Leonardo da Vinci Health Sciences Charter School. This “Smarter Charter” encompasses elements that only a charter school can offer their children - an education built on choice, accountability, innovation and freedom. We are dedicated to creating a quality, student-centered educational program that empowers all students, in a safe and supportive environment, to become innovative, compassionate, intelligent thinkers.
The small group of teachers and parents wrote, petitioned for, and opened a brand new public charter school in California in 2009. We were housed on the campus of Mater Dei High School in Chula Vista for the first three years.
In year one (2009-2010), we had seven classrooms with an enrollment of 156 students. In the second year (2010-2011), we grew to 11 classrooms with 238 students and attained accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. In year three (2011-2013), we continued to grow to 280 students in 11 classrooms.
We are a small independent charter school that has a health and science focus where we value developing the skills, talents, and interests of the whole child rather than focusing solely on what score he or she will make on the state tests. We draw students from over 25 different schools within the county, and approximately 38% of our students are English Learners, 29% have qualified for free and reduced lunch, and 10% are receiving special education services.
We believe that if we are to improve lifelong eating habits among children, it is critical that they learn to make healthy eating and active lifestyle choices. As a health sciences school, a major part of our school’s mission is to create “health literate” students who exhibit knowledge, skills, and behaviors critical to healthy living.
Why Leonardo da Vinci?
Students at Leonardo da Vinci Health Sciences Charter School are valued as first-hand inquirers and producers of knowledge. Leonardo da Vinci embodies the habits of mind fostered in each student. Leonardo da Vinci was a true Renaissance man who interpreted, challenged, and dissected knowledge. A master painter, sculptor, mathematician, scientist, and writer, Leonardo da Vinci's ingenuity and passion for ideas make him an exemplary role model for our students.
"For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return." ~Leonardo da Vinci
When Clear View Charter Elementary School elected to surrender its charter and not seek renewal in 2008, the teachers and parents who believed strongly in the power of charter schools forged ahead to create the school of their dreams. This extremely determined group of teachers and parents devoted many hours of hard work in planning and developing Leonardo da Vinci Health Sciences Charter School. This “Smarter Charter” encompasses elements that only a charter school can offer their children - an education built on choice, accountability, innovation and freedom. We are dedicated to creating a quality, student-centered educational program that empowers all students, in a safe and supportive environment, to become innovative, compassionate, intelligent thinkers.
The small group of teachers and parents wrote, petitioned for, and opened a brand new public charter school in California in 2009. We were housed on the campus of Mater Dei High School in Chula Vista for the first three years.
In year one (2009-2010), we had seven classrooms with an enrollment of 156 students. In the second year (2010-2011), we grew to 11 classrooms with 238 students and attained accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. In year three (2011-2013), we continued to grow to 280 students in 11 classrooms.
We are a small independent charter school that has a health and science focus where we value developing the skills, talents, and interests of the whole child rather than focusing solely on what score he or she will make on the state tests. We draw students from over 25 different schools within the county, and approximately 38% of our students are English Learners, 29% have qualified for free and reduced lunch, and 10% are receiving special education services.
We believe that if we are to improve lifelong eating habits among children, it is critical that they learn to make healthy eating and active lifestyle choices. As a health sciences school, a major part of our school’s mission is to create “health literate” students who exhibit knowledge, skills, and behaviors critical to healthy living.
Why Leonardo da Vinci?
Students at Leonardo da Vinci Health Sciences Charter School are valued as first-hand inquirers and producers of knowledge. Leonardo da Vinci embodies the habits of mind fostered in each student. Leonardo da Vinci was a true Renaissance man who interpreted, challenged, and dissected knowledge. A master painter, sculptor, mathematician, scientist, and writer, Leonardo da Vinci's ingenuity and passion for ideas make him an exemplary role model for our students.
"For once you have tasted flight you will walk the earth with your eyes turned skywards, for there you have been and there you will long to return." ~Leonardo da Vinci