There is this perception that today’s young people are centred on themselves and are not concerned about poverty and other social issues. Attending the D.R.E.A.M.S trip confirmed my beliefs that not only do our students care about global issues, but they are in fact open and feel a strong sense of responsibility to create awareness and initiate efforts to effect change in our world.

Michael Gravina
Principal

St. Mary Catholic Secondary School is proud of the tradition that has been established, building homes and making a difference for poor families in the mountainous, Ocoa region of the Dominican Republic.

All Grade 10, 11 and 12 students who would like to become involved in D.R.E.A.M.S. (Dominican Republic Education and Medical Support) need to submit the following in May:

A short 500 word essay explaining why they want to participate
A signed endorsement from their parish priest
A completed application and Parental Consent Form
A recent student photo

In addition, successful candidates will need to complete and submit copies of the following:

Travel Consent Form
Photocopy of current Passport and Health Card
Code of Behaviour SIGNED BY PARTICIPANT/PARENT/GUARDIAN

Since we are immersed in a Spanish-speaking environment in the Dominican Republic, applicants are encouraged to take the Spanish course offered at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School.

Students have a greater likelihood of being D.R.E.A.M.S.’ participants if they are committed and actively involved in our school, their Parish, the Board-wide pilgrimage, Thinkfast and their local community. Preference is also given to Grade 12 students as this is often their last opportunity to participate in St. Mary Catholic Secondary School D.R.E.A.M.S’ project.

The D.R.E.A.M.S.’ selection team includes our administration, teachers, educational assistants and the school chaplain.

Those students who are not selected on their first attempt are strongly encouraged to apply again. Also, they can involve themselves in other activities of Christian service, such as D.A.R.E.S. (Dancing, Acting Recreational Educational & Singing), Development & Peace, Diversity, The Pilgrimage, Thinkfast and Culture of Life.

Click here for 2014 D.R.E.A.M.S. Photos: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a. ...

Andrew Gair shares his life changing experience as a participant in the D.R.E.A.M.S. program.

D.R.E.A.M.S. (Dominican Republic Education and Medical Support) students at many of our Catholic secondary schools, strive to make a difference by traveling, working, and living in the remote, mountainous Ocoa region of the Dominican Republic.