Frequently Asked Questions

How do on-line classes work?  Is there a demo?

Once a student is accepted into BDA, they will be able to select from over 300 courses available through VHS Learning including AP, Honors and STEM classes.  Courses are asynchronous which means that students have access to their class work 24/7.  Students are expected, however, to login into their classes on specific days and at specific times as outlined by BDA, and are expected to meet weekly deadlines set by their course instructors. Students work closely with their teachers and classmates in an online class environment through group projects, class discussions, and more. Class sizes are limited to 21 students and all classes are conducted entirely online.  A standard, college-preparatory course takes about 6-8 hours of work per week, for honors classes about 8-10 hours per week and for AP classes 10-12 hours per week.  To see a demo provided by VHS Learning of a course please visit: https://vhslearning.org/course-demos.

Do you offer financial aid or a payment plan?  How do I make a payment?

Yes, financial aid is available to any student depending on need. And, we offer flexible payment plans – 8 months, 10 months, or 12 months.  Payments are made to BDA via TADS.

To request financial aid and arrange a payment plan, a parent must fill out the financial need section on the TADS website when applying to the school. The BDA application process is outlined on the Admissions page.

*** Please note that it is BDA policy that no student is denied admission due to their financial circumstance. We will discuss the need for assistance during the admission interview.

What is the enrollment process?

The BDA enrollment process consists of 4 steps which are outlined on our Admissions page. If you need assistance, reach out to [email protected] at any time.

Is BDA a Seventh-day Adventist school?

BDA is an independent, self-supporting Christian school with a mission to bring out the best in each of our students and to prepare them for a life of leadership, purpose, excellence and service in this world and for the greater joy and wider service in the world to come. BDA was founded by committed Christians who are members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and who fully embraces the global mission of the SDA Church.

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds who are committed to outstanding academics, character development, and social justice. Our Christian values are demonstrated through our belief that each student is of inestimable value to God, created for big things! 

Does my family have to be Christian or Adventist for my child to attend?

BDA welcomes all students regardless of their personal beliefs, creating a safe space for them to learn.  While we are unapologetically Christian, our core purpose is to equip each student with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to live life with fulfillment and purpose.

Will my children have to participate in prayer and religion classes?

Religion classes are core subjects at BDA.  Students will learn about contemporary issues from both a Biblical and Historic prospective. and discuss how they impact current affairs.  They learn about the Bible and its relevance in the world today.

Participating in prayer is always a choice, however students are expected to be respectful during times of prayer.  Prayer is used to begin and finish each day before meals and prior to exams and sporting events.  We will pray with students before leaving campus for field trips or extended excursions as well, believing in the power of prayer to protect and guide us.

What should I do if my child will be absent from school?

Parents or guardians must contact the school as soon as possible but no later 30 minutes before the start of the school day.  Only calls from parents or legal guardians will be accepted.  If  the school is not contacted by a parent or guardian, the absence will be considered unexcused.

Please Note: Students are responsible for all missed assignments.

Will my child’s college visit be excused?

 Yes. College visits will be excused. BDA asks that college visits be requested at least 14 days in advance of departure so that a modified schedule may be worked out with VHS. A written notification signed by the parent /guardian is required.

Can my child be excused from school for a family vacation while school is in session?

Yes.  However, students are responsible for completing all of their work as outlined by BDA/VHS.  Please note that it has been our experience that absence from school usually leads to a decline in  the student grades. We strongly recommend that if your child will be absent due to vacation, that you schedule time daily for your child to complete class assignments. 

What happens if my child arrives late to school without prior notification.

Your child will get an unexcused tardy.  Whenever a student is late, the student MUST check-in with the principal or facilitator and sign-in before proceeding to the classroom.

 If my child’s absence is classified as excused, can all of their school work be made up?

No. Unfortunately while most teachers do allow work to be made up in a reasonable amount of time (if prior arrangement is made) “discussions” can never be made up.  This is because discussions are interactive activities between students in the same class, pertaining to the current week’s work.  This however is not usually a problem since work can be done and submitted from anywhere.

Note: It is the student’s responsibility to contact their teacher and facilitator regarding make-up assignments.

What happens if my child becomes ill during the school day?

Your child should inform the onsite facilitator and you will be notified immediately.  The situation will be quickly assessed and depending on the finding, your child may be sent to the nurses area, you may be asked to pick up your child or if deemed necessary your child may be taken to the closest hospital.  Whatever the circumstance you will be kept informed and consulted.

What happens if my child has medication that must be taken during the school hours?

We request that all medication (whether prescription or over-the-counter) be turned in to the school nurse, facilitator or principal. Medication must be in its’ original container with clear directions.  When it is time for the student to take their medication, they will need to get it from the school nurse/facilitator.

Can I visit my child as school? Are there procedures for parents and/or guest visiting the building during the school day?

Yes and Yes.  Parents and visitors are welcome and encouraged to visit and interact with our students, especially during lunch time and our weekly assemblies.  However, we do ask that all visitors call ahead if possible.  Upon arrival and before entering any classroom or interacting with any student, guest must check-in with the principal or facilitator.  We also require all visitors to sign in (in our guest book) on arrival and sign out when they are leaving the building.  This is mandated in order to (1) maintain a secure  and safe environment and (2) maintain order in the classroom.  Please be advised that you may be asked to show identification.

How do I find out if there is no school due to inclement weather or an emergency situation?

For school closures and delays, we follow the Boston Public School System. In addition, an email and or text will be sent out to all parents and/or guardians. In the event of an emergency situation that occurs during school hours, all attempts will be made to reach parents and/or guardians via a phone call, text message or email.

What happens if my child is not in full uniform?

For the first occurrence, the issue will be discussed with the student, and the parent or guardian will be notified.  If possible, we will supply the missing item for the day (example a tie, socks or belt).  If it reoccurs, the student will be charged $2.00 per item (for example $2.00 for the tie and $2.00 for the socks).  100% of the fees will go directly to the worthy student fund.

Does a student have to wear uniform to school every day?

Yes, except on Fridays. On Fridays, students are given the option of  “dressing down” for a $2.00 fee which goes to the student government discretionary fund which is used for student activities. Students are required to dress modestly on dress down days.  No torn jeans, spandex  or tight fitting clothes are allowed. This will be discussed during orientation.

What time does school begin and end each day?

Our regular school hours are Monday – Thursday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Friday, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM.  

Are daily meals served at school?

No, not currently.  Students will either need to bring their lunches with them from home or purchase lunch from a local restaurant.  For students bringing their lunch, microwaves and toasters are provided for heating food and there is a refrigerator for storing food before lunch.

Please note, we are currently working on a hot meal program for the students. This could entail discounts at local restaurants or hot lunch provided periodically to the students at school.

 Are bus passes provided by the school?

No, not currently.  Students can obtain a student bus pass from City Hall.

If I am interested in volunteering at the school, how do I go about it?

If you would like to assist at the school, please contact Principal Jackson or Mrs. Opal Williams, they will be happy to talk with you regarding where best you can help.