Bright Students Find the Right Learning Fit at Academy for Gifted Children

What if your child could learn in a community where the questions are deeper and the learning more meaningful while engaging with like-minded peers? What if instead of a teacher telling a student what to think, they show them how to think and then provides opportunities for application and challenging study?

Da Vinci Academy in Elgin, Illinois is mission-driven to celebrate the way that gifted and academically talented children learn while providing exceptional academics. As one middle school student shared, "I like attending DVA because it is accelerated and inspiring. All of the projects are challenging but fun and I am never bored." The student went on to add, "The small classes ensure that we get individualized learning and the teachers give us more of their time. I am always learning something and I look forward to each day of school."

Children who seek more challenge in school are frustrated with the typical classroom, despite the teacher's best efforts to differentiate. While some bright students are successful in finding ways to stay engaged and rely on the social experience to stimulate their environment, others would be better served in a classroom that features advanced learning opportunities customized to the student's needs. Gifted children also find learning alongside like-minded peers who challenge them to be a better fit for sharing ideas, exploring similar interests, and discovering new approaches.

Parents who wonder if their child would benefit from a gifted environment should consider if their child is a curious learner - do they ask a lot of questions? Do they seek depth on topics that interest them? Are they often outside-the-box in their approach to how they interact with the world around them? Gifted children seek meaning and understanding and the teachers at Da Vinci Academy are excited to see where the children will take the learning each and every day. The curriculum is designed to bring depth to classroom discussions and the content is challenging. As one DVA teacher said, "Bright children are naturally curious and want to know why. We use an integrated approach to teaching so that our students can develop broad and deep understanding. Recognizing relationships across the disciplines - or making connections - contributes to independent thought, creativity, and a love of learning. Our children love school!".

Da Vinci Academy is a non-profit, private, independent day school for gifted and academically talented children in pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. The school has open enrollment, as space allows, and encourages families to arrange for tours of the classrooms. To find out more about the school, visit www.dvacademy.org or call 847-841-7532 and ask for Amanda Davey, Assistant Head of School and Director of Admissions.