Message from Our Principal
Orlando Hall
The 2025–2026 school year is off to an energizing start at Boston Dream Academy (BDA) and we are already wrapping up our first semester of school! With new faces, renewed momentum, and a shared commitment to excellence, our campus is buzzing with purpose. Here’s a look back at the moments that set the tone for what promises to be an exciting and meaningful year ahead.
Welcoming Our Parents & Students
Our academic year began with an engaging Orientation Week filled with interactive activities intentionally designed to build camaraderie among students and staff. From day one, our goal was clear: help students feel welcomed, supported, and excited about learning.
(Students enjoy playing hand games, table tennis, etc.)
To help incoming students acclimate to the rigor of our curriculum—and to feel truly at home within our school community—we paired them with upperclassmen mentors. These mentors provide ongoing guidance, answer questions, and walk alongside new students as they navigate this new paradigm of learning.
During orientation, each student also completed academic assessments that provide us with a clear benchmark of strengths and areas of need. This allows our team to thoughtfully tailor instruction and support so every student is positioned for success.
(Right: Previous student meets new student; Left: BDA parent association poses during 2025 graduation; photos by Elisa Hall, Kerry Fitzpatrick)
Student Leadership: A Cornerstone of Life at BDA
At Boston Dream Academy, we believe this school belongs to our students—and with that belief comes meaningful responsibility and real influence.
Students actively campaign, run for office, and serve in elected leadership roles, gaining firsthand experience in integrity, accountability, collaboration, service, and responsibility. A student representative participates on our Board, ensuring student voices are heard at the highest level of school governance.
With a strong and active student government and close relationships between students and school leadership, BDA is intentionally shaping confident, capable young leaders—students who know their voices matter and that they can positively impact their sphere of influence.
(Left: Student leading out; Right: Students participate in community service)
International Food Fight
On September 7, we launched our inaugural International “Food Fight” Fundraiser (no food was thrown in the making of this event!). Families, staff, and community members gathered to celebrate cultural diversity and to “battle” for the title of Best Cultural Dish—all while building friendships and community.
Thanks to generous donations from local businesses, families, staff, and supporters, guests enjoyed delicious dishes from more than 11 countries, including Jamaica, Cabo Verde, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Vietnam, and Montserrat.
One of our favorite moments? A family attended, loved the experience so much, went home to gather friends and relatives—and returned to join the fun!
We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming community support. Mark your calendars now to join us next year on Sunday, September 13 for even more spicy fun! 100% of proceeds from this event go directly toward student scholarships.
(Left: Supporters enjoy conversation over delicious food; Right: several people line up at the Jamaican table; photos by Milton Samuels)
Fall Mental Health Day
On October 10, students learned the value of self-care as they took a break from schoolwork to focus on rapport-building and mental health. Student body leaders organized games to play, including a riveting game of Mafia. Additionally, they participated in a discussion on a variety of topics that included honesty, integrity, and what to do when feeling lonely.
(Left: A student enjoys talking to classmates on Zoom during Mental Health Day; Right: student leading out in group game; Photos by Helaine G., Student Photographer)
Worship Insights
We encourage all student to lead out in worship and throughout the term, students took turns standing upfront and reading, singing, and orchestrating games to engage their classmates on biblical themes. In addition to our daily, student-led worship, we hosted weekly assemblies featuring motivational speakers—including artists, business leaders, pastors, attorneys, youth advocates, and community members—who share real-life experiences and wisdom that inspire our students. We’re so blessed to have a supportive community who volunteer their time on Wednesday mornings to inspire.
Parents, if you or someone you know would like to serve as a featured speaker, we would love to connect!
(Left: Professional speaker & coach, Nathalie Ais, explores the power of an underdog during chapel; Right: students listen as principal leads worship.)
Serving Our Community—Beyond the School Day
Boston Dream Academy is more than a school—we strive to be a center of community connection and a trusted community resource.
After school hours, our doors remain open to support and uplift our neighbors. Our building hosts weddings, baby showers, cooking classes, graduations, exercise classes, business meetings, and other community gatherings.
By offering a safe and welcoming space for diverse activities, we continue strengthening our bond with the community God has blessed us to serve. We look forward to expanding these opportunities and meeting the needs of our neighbors in meaningful and impactful ways.
(Our event space transforms into wedding & baby shower venues with beautiful decor.)
Volunteer Opportunities: Be a Part of the DREAM
At Boston DREAM Academy, we rely on the generosity of dedicated volunteers and supporters like you. Your time, skills, and willingness to serve directly empower our students to lead purpose-driven lives—becoming positive forces for good in their homes, churches, and communities.
FUN FACT: True or False: For the first two years of its operation, BDA had no paid staff.
✅ TRUE!
The school was operated entirely by dedicated, highly qualified volunteers who shared a deep conviction that “Children are our future—teach them well and let them lead the way.”
Volunteers and donors are truly the lifeblood of our mission. Because of you, our school doesn’t merely function—it flourishes.
Join Us in Making an Impact
If you feel called to volunteer, share your expertise, or serve as a speaker, we warmly invite you to connect with us.
📧 Email: admin@bostondreamacademy.org
📞 Phone: 617-506-1358
Or speak with any member of our staff after school hours.
We invite you to be a part of the DREAM. Together, we can shape the future, strengthen families, and build a community where every student can thrive.
Upcoming Events for Fall Semester
Christmas Concert Performance: Join us on December 13th at Braintree SDA Church to witness our school choir perform. Parents, more information can be found here: Christmas Concert Performance
Christmas Breakfast & Gift Exchange — December 17: Students will enjoy fun games, good food, and gift giving before leaving for Winter Break.
Winter Break — December 18–January 7: Enjoy the holidays (and snow)! We’ll see you again in the New Year.