STEVE REID
Editor & Publisher
sreid@lbknews.com
The ballroom of the Westin Downtown Sarasota was transformed into a landscape of literary magic last night for the
Dreamers Academy’s “Once Upon a Gala.” The annual event, a vital fundraiser for the Sarasota-based Spanish Immersion Charter School, brought together community leaders, educators, and supporters for an unforgettable evening dedicated to transforming students’ lives through intensive literacy intervention.
The Passionate Leadership of Brianna François
The gala’s resounding success was driven in large part by the energy and dedication of event Co-Chair Brianna François. While locally known at the Longboat Key Club Tennis Gardens for her energetic and passionate leadership of the tennis program, last night showcased her deep commitment to education.
Ms. François could be seen darting across every corner of the room, ensuring every detail was perfect, adding to the excitement by bringing friends together for photograph opportunities and helping to run the spirited auction. Her efforts, combined with strong ticket sales, ensured the evening was a complete success.
In a touching display of community support, numerous Longboat Key residents who know Ms. François from the Tennis Gardens showed up dressed as literary characters, enjoying the gourmet food and celebrating one of Sarasota’s most dedicated schools.
Specialized Intervention: An Educational Transformation
The funds raised directly support a remarkable educational mission. Dreamers Academy specializes in intensive literacy intervention, focusing on the approximately 600 students—many of whom enter the school below grade level in reading, and the majority of whom speak English as a second language.
The school’s innovative approach to language and education has been life-changing. Instead of students being labeled as special education candidates due to their reading difficulties, Dreamers Academy quickly moves the bar. In short order, the majority of these students not only reach grade level but, in many cases, gain skill levels that exceed the averages found in other elementary school programs across Florida.
Highlights and Community Investment
Head of Dreamers Academy, Dr. Cathy Rodriguez, and Founder Geri Chaffee addressed the attendees, underscoring the vital need for resources that support this successful model.
The gala’s ambitious goal was to raise $375,000 to support quality literacy interventions. These funds are essential for providing:
• Curated Books: Purchasing over 120 books for each student’s daily at-home reading.
• Specialized Instruction: Funding the intensive, evidence-based literacy programs that fuel their students’ rapid progress.
The “Once Upon a Gala” was more than a fundraiser; it was a powerful celebration of a school that is rewriting the story for hundreds of Sarasota children, proving that with dedicated support and innovative methods, every child can be a successful reader.
