In Boston, a city celebrated for its educational excellence, a persistent achievement gap casts a shadow. Recent scores from the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS), reveal only 40% of students met or exceeded expectations, with urban communities faring worse. Less than 30% of Black and Hispanic/Latino students met benchmarks. The need for innovative educational support has never been more urgent.
Closing the Achievement Gap
Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston (BGCB) is confronting this crisis through a bold expansion of academic initiatives. The goal by 2028: ensure all members achieve grade-level proficiency in reading, writing, and math. Leading this effort is Saaran Sillah, BGCB’s inaugural Director of Academic Success. Sillah, whose own journey began as a teen leader at the Yawkey Club of Roxbury, brings a unique blend of personal connection and professional expertise to her role.
“Building relationships is key,” Sillah explains. “From homework support to STEM and literacy initiatives, our programs are tailored to meet students where they are and help them reach their potential.” Sillah collaborates with each of BGCB’s eight Clubs to design initiatives that address unique challenges faced by our members while maintaining consistent standards of excellence.
“We must address the gaps in academic support to ensure that members who may be overlooked or struggling in school receive the resources and guidance they need to succeed.”
Creating Pathways to Success
The impact is evident in programs like the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Tour, supported by many longtime donors, including Loomis Sayles. Originally a Yawkey Club initiative, this experience is now expanding across all Clubs, exemplifying BGCB’s focus on widening opportunities for students.
In 2024, 28 seniors in BGCB’s programs earned nearly $2 million in scholarships. Among them was Paris Figuereo, who received a full scholarship to Rutgers University. Reflecting on her experience, Paris shared, “You could tell the staff loved what they did. That made me want to keep coming back to improve myself.”
A generous gift from Ted and Maureen English is further accelerating these initiatives by funding college mentors, expanding tours throughout New England, and providing critical financial assistance. This support enables BGCB to increase access to a broader range of educational programming and services for current members and recent Club alumni currently in college.
Through the support of our generous donors and partners, BGCB is creating pathways to success for every young person who walks through our doors. “We must address the gaps in academic support to ensure that members who may be overlooked or struggling in school receive the resources and guidance they need to succeed,” Sillah emphasizes. With committed partners, donors, and dedicated staff, BGCB is shaping Boston’s future leaders, ensuring every member has the opportunity for greatness.
