Leonardo da Vinci School adopts Wit and Wisdom for English language arts curriculum

The Green Bay Area Public School Board convened on March 10, 2025, to discuss the adoption of a new English language arts curriculum for the Leonardo da Vinci School for Gifted Learners. The proposed resource, "Wit and Wisdom" by Great Minds, aims to enhance the educational experience for advanced students by providing a rigorous and differentiated approach to language arts.

During the meeting, Linda Teske, the Director of Literacy, introduced the curriculum representatives, including Jen Schneider, the ELA Curriculum Coordinator, and Vicky Leiskang, the principal of the Leonardo da Vinci School. They emphasized that the selection process for the new curriculum began over a year and a half ago, involving extensive surveys and discussions with Da Vinci staff and stakeholders to identify the most suitable resource.

"Wit and Wisdom" was highlighted for its ability to cater to the diverse needs of gifted learners, offering a comprehensive scope and sequence that aligns with Wisconsin state standards. The curriculum incorporates Kagan's strategies to foster student engagement through collaborative activities, ensuring that lessons are both challenging and interactive.

The board noted that the adoption of this curriculum is supported by Da Vinci families, who advocate for a robust educational program for their children. The integration of "Wit and Wisdom" with existing resources, such as the University of Florida Learning Institute (UFLI) materials, further solidifies its alignment with the science of reading, enhancing the overall learning framework for students.

As the board moves forward with this recommendation, the decision reflects a commitment to providing high-quality educational resources that meet the needs of gifted learners in the Green Bay community. The adoption of "Wit and Wisdom" is expected to significantly impact the academic growth of students at the Leonardo da Vinci School, preparing them for future success.