An Achievable Dream (AAD) is a nationally recognized K–12 educational program dedicated to the belief that all children can learn and succeed regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds, and that education can break the cycle of poverty. Without An Achievable Dream, many of our students would not have the opportunities they need to succeed in school and in life.
AAD operates three schools through public/private partnerships with Newport News (VA) Public Schools and Virginia Beach (VA) City Public Schools. The public school systems provide instructional and support elements common to all city schools, including basic curriculum and staffing, student services, and transportation. An Achievable Dream, Inc., a 501 (c)(3), raises funds for and operates additional components that contribute significantly to the program’s effectiveness.
The AAD faculty and staff go beyond academics to provide students with a well-rounded education through the comprehensive SAME® (social, academic, moral education) curriculum, state-of-the-art technology, and extensive extracurricular, experiential and cultural activities. Partnerships with the military, local law enforcement and area corporations provide positive role models, workplace readiness skills and job shadowing or volunteer opportunities. An Achievable Dream offers a quality education in a nurturing environment, the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with caring adults, and the chance to take part in engaging enrichment activities during both the academic day and hours spent outside of school.
The focus at all grade levels is that college and successful careers are achievable for everyone. AAD students pursue a rigorous academic curriculum. Nearly all high school students enroll in honors and advance placement classes during their high school careers and they annually score equal or better than top Virginia students on state SOL exams. Through sponsorships, each graduate attending college receives an annual merit scholarship for the duration of their academic career.