Drake Academy of Execellence
Details
Challenge
How can we create a brand and digital presence that not only captures the vision of a school yet to open but also serves as a strategic tool to engage families, attract partners, and secure necessary funding?
Drake Academy was born from a shared vision between Esther Concepción and Brittany Young. Esther, with her background in curriculum design and educational leadership, believes every child has innate greatness that flourishes when nurtured by passionate educators. Brittany, formerly a veterinary technician, experienced a transformative moment when she learned of Esther’s vision for Drake. Inspired by her son’s experiences and their shared passion for children’s well-being, Brittany joined as co-founder. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology, Brittany brings a unique perspective focused on fostering well-being and human flourishing, ensuring that every student has the tools to overcome challenges and thrive.
Goal
Develop a robust, multi-functional website to support Drake Academy’s key initiatives:
- Engaging prospective families through virtual school tours and a podcast series that showcases the school’s mission and leadership.
- Building community support with a built-in eCommerce platform for future school merchandise sales and fundraisers.
- Streamlining admissions through an accessible, user-friendly portal for prospective applicants.
- Facilitating donations with integrated PayPal functionality, making it easy for supporters to contribute to the school’s mission.
Result
The website was designed to actively support Drake Academy’s growth:
- Virtual visits allow families to explore Drake’s values and educational philosophy remotely.
- A dedicated podcast platform shares insights from Esther and Brittany, deepening community engagement.
- The built-in eCommerce section supports future merchandise sales and fundraising efforts, fostering school spirit.
- Integrated donation capabilities through PayPal simplify contributions to Drake’s mission.
- A clear applicant portal streamlines the admissions process, making it easier for families to join the Drake community.
The Dragon Symbol: Transformation and Renewal
At the heart of Drake Academy’s brand is the dragon crest, symbolizing transformation and the unlocking of hidden potential. In European folklore, dragons are powerful symbols of turning base elements into gold, embodying Drake’s mission to transform traditional education into a journey of lifelong growth. The deep navy represents wisdom and trust, while the bright orange pays homage to the founders’ connection to Syracuse University, symbolizing energy, creativity, and the enthusiasm for learning.
Drake Academy of Excellence: Building New Beginnings for Families in Massachusetts
Esther Concepción and Brittany Young are leading a new chapter in education, driven by their shared belief in the power of human potential. By leveraging digital tools to connect with families, engage partners, and build a vibrant school community, Drake Academy is laying the groundwork for a transformative educational experience.
Here’s to the new beginnings they are creating—one child, one family, one community at a time.