About Da Vinci

Education shaped by experience, research and care.

Founded in Okinawa in 2008, Da Vinci International School combines international academics with a whole-child approach to learning and well-being.

Founder's Message

Supporting families on the journey of raising thriving children.

Raising a healthy child—physically, mentally and emotionally—is a beautiful but immense challenge. Founder Dr. Eugenia Padovani describes turning to Child Psychology during her own early experience as a mother, then bringing those insights into an educational project that became Da Vinci International School.

Nearly two decades after arriving in Okinawa, her goal remains to combine the perspective of a mother, teacher, child psychologist and school director in support of children and families.

Dr. Eugenia Padovani
Founder & Director

Dr. Adrian Arce and Dr. Eugenia Padovani
Leadership

Academic and professional development across education and psychology.

Dr. Adrian Arce

Director

  • Doctoral studies in Cultural Anthropology and Clinical Neuropsychology.
  • Presented education research at the Oxford Round Table.
  • Continuing education in autism, mental health and education, depression, anxiety, resilience and ADHD-related topics.
  • Additional study in philosophy and psychiatry, autism education and phonological disorders.

Dr. Eugenia Padovani

Founder & Director

  • Doctoral studies in Child Psychology and Education.
  • Graduate studies in Child Psychology, Educational Coaching and Autism.
  • Training in education diplomacy, mental health and education, resilience, leadership and health care.
  • Recipient of the 2017 Emerging Leader Award from Childhood Education International.

Credentials are summarized for website readability. The complete credential lists appear in the school brochure.

Training & International Recognition

A global perspective brought back to Okinawa.

Harvard Training

Continuing education in mental health, education and related fields across multiple years.

Oxford Round Table

Presenters and members in Childhood Education programs, including 2014 and 2024.

OMEP Presenters

World conference presentations in Washington, D.C. and Seoul.

ACEI Recognition

World Assembly presenters and 2017 Emerging Leader Award recipients.

Experience Da Vinci

Visit the school and see the environment for yourself.

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