DREAM

Meet Marie Connor, our passionate AP U.S. History teacher, History Department Chair, and Debate Coach who is transforming education at DREAM! Now in her third year at DREAM, Marie is dedicated to empowering every student to find their voice and personal power—especially those from historically underrepresented backgrounds—preparing them to reach their full potential and become the leaders of tomorrow. “It’s about being real with one another and preparing our students to lead,” she says. Marie established DREAM's debate program through the Brooklyn Debate League, guiding students toward excellence. Young women on the team, in particular, have achieved significant milestones such as winning first place at the New School, qualifying for state competitions, and representing DREAM nationally at UPenn and Villiger tournaments. “Debate allows young women to challenge gender norms and actively rewards them for doing so,” Marie explains. Her leadership has been part of a collaborative effort to expand access to debate and increase representation in competitions. At last year’s UPenn tournament, there were no non-selective or public schools that participated; this year, DREAM students helped increase that participation rate to 39%. “These incredible students are proving every day that they belong in these spaces—and thrive in them,” she says. Marie is also championing AI integration in education, positioning DREAM as a leader in this emerging field. “AI in educational technology supports rather than replaces student learning,” she explains. By leveraging AI tools for progress tracking, individualized instruction, and data-informed teaching, she creates more responsive learning experiences while freeing up time for deeper student engagement. “These tools help streamline administrative tasks and allow me to focus on what's most important: student learning.” Marie's dual focus on empowerment and innovation reflects her belief that success requires both voice and tools: "Your voice matters. Use it to harness the power of new technology, because it can empower you if you understand both its capabilities and pitfalls. Together, they are preparing the way for your future."

Thank you for your kind words and support! We’re grateful for partners like you and appreciate you highlighting the work DREAM is doing. Excited to keep driving innovation in AI together!

It was so great to join this team engaging in truly thoughtful work around the development of gamechanging products that make our work better and faster. In today’s world of rapid change it is so important to move deliberately and to stay grounded in truth and values. This deeply aligns with our focus on relationships and how we are approaching AI integration at DREAM and we are excited to be at the forefront of this movement!

We're grateful for the recognition and deeply value the importance of acknowledging our donors for their partnership and support. Thank you!

?? We're Hiring: Summer Youth Workers! DREAM is looking for Youth Workers to lead engaging activities in sports, academics, and enrichment for students in our summer programs in East Harlem and the South Bronx. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on youth development experience with training, mentorship, and a pathway to DREAM’s Teaching Fellowship—leading to a Master’s degree and full-time teaching role. ???In-person (NYC-based) | June 20 - August 1, 2025 $17.50-$18.00/hr | Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:15 PM ???Apply now: https://bit.ly/DREAMSU2025 #YouthDevelopment #EducationJobs #Hiring #JoinDREAM

Thank you for this incredible message! Events like ELL/MLL Career Day are so important in ensuring our multilingual learners feel seen, supported, and empowered. Grateful for the speakers who shared their stories and for everyone at DREAM working to create equitable spaces where all students can thrive!

This Black History Month, DREAM students across all campuses united to honor history, celebrate culture, and showcase Black excellence through dynamic performances, creative expression, and community events. At Mott Haven Middle School, scholars delivered our first-ever BHM Showcase, featuring a fashion show, spoken word performances, and step routines from Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. East Harlem students immersed themselves in cultural arts with African drumming, a tribute to Misty Copeland, and a Black Business Expo highlighting local entrepreneurs. DREAM Highbridge?brought Black History Month to life through their creative Spirit Week celebrations. Students embraced themes like Melanin Monday and Black Out Day, expressing cultural pride through their attire and activities Meanwhile, DREAM Charter High School students transformed the runway with a fashion show spanning from Mansa Musa's era to Y2K styles, including an original "Fear of Fame" collection by Prince McHenry, complemented by moving performances from the DCHS Choir and spoken word artists. These gatherings represented more than celebrations—they embodied resilience, creativity, and community strength. Our sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to making this month meaningful!?

DREAM is transforming the way schools operate—from classrooms to leadership—by leveraging AI to streamline workflows, accelerate decision-making, and create more space for what truly matters: meaningful human connections across our community. As we embrace AI-driven solutions to work smarter, we want to hear from you! What innovations would make the biggest impact in your workplace? ???? hashtag #AIinEducation #FutureofWork #Innovation #EdTech

?? Congratulations, Kalila Hoggard! ?? We’re so proud to celebrate Kalila on being named a 2025 Pahara Fellow! Your dedication to transforming education and creating opportunities for all students is truly inspiring. We're excited to see the impact you’ll continue to make! ??? #PaharaFellowship #EducationLeadership #DREAMBig