Bridges program forges unique connections with students

By Beautiful Wade

Opinions Reporter

The Bridges program is an alternative school for students who need reinforcement and a smaller, more calming work environment. Working at Bridges allows staff to build closer connections with students and support them in a more personalized way. There are many challenges at the Bridges program, but one specific challenge is limited resources compared to the regular high school. 

Staff and admin toured the welding lab in Bridges last year. Photo by Mr. Kenealy

Some students have significant barriers to overcome, which can be tough, making staff jobs more meaningful. The rules are designed to create a structured and supportive environment, which many students benefit from. While some students may find them strict, they’re ultimately in place to help students stay focused and succeed. The Bridges program doesn’t have after-school activities, but after-school activities at Bridges could be beneficial. 

Offering students additional opportunities to connect, build skills, and develop interests outside the classroom. Regarding cell phone policy at the building, phones are collected to minimize distractions and maintain focus. In case of emergencies, staff members are trained to handle situations and ensure communication. The policy aims to create a productive learning space while keeping students safe. 

“Phones are collected to minimize distractions and maintain focus. In emergencies, staff members are trained to handle situations and ensure communication,” Mr. Naglak said.

It might be more difficult to work with students who need extra support or attention, but the staff there are very patient and caring. There are a different number of students in each class depending on the grade level and class, but typically, there are 8-12 students in each class. Some staff there haven’t always worked in small programs like bridges; they’ve been in bigger environments, such as regular high schools with a much bigger population. 

They’ve claimed to like both because of the large number of activities in the regular high school and the ability to individually get to know and support each student at Bridges. The bridges and high school have many differences, but the biggest difference is that the bridges program is smaller, so that helps staff individualize the support and interventions needed for each specific student. 

“The main difference is the individualized approach at Bridges. There is a greater focus on addressing each student’s unique needs, both academically and personally, to help them achieve their goals,” Naglak said.