About Us

Principal's Message

 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

On behalf of the BRIDGE Academy staffulty, a team that includes administration, teachers, teacher assistants, RBTs (for our autism academy), counseling services, and most importantly, a deep passion for each child who enters our doors, I would like to express my enthusiasm for the coming school year. Our unique focus on individual growth, coupled with our unwavering commitment to parent involvement, is the cornerstones that distinguish us from other schools.  

I welcome you to our new school with great anticipation and excitement. We are thrilled for you to join us on this journey. As we open our doors this school year, we look forward to the collaborative work we can do alongside staffulty and parents. Your involvement is welcome and integral to helping each child grow and reach beyond expectations.

We look forward to seeing what this year holds for our students and the school community. 

A little about myself: I will begin my 39th year in education in August. I could not have dreamed of a better way to start this year than being at BRIDGE Academy. I have served as an English-Language Arts teacher in grades 9-12 in high school. Additionally, I have served in various administrative roles, including Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, and Principal, spanning grades Pre-K through 12 for over 30 years. 

As a school, we are deeply committed to the growth of all our students. We believe in growing the “whole” child, encompassing social, emotional, and academic components. This holistic approach is at the core of our educational philosophy, and we are dedicated to providing a nurturing and challenging environment that encourages each student to reach their full potential. This commitment reassures parents that their child's development is our top priority. 

As the Principal of the building, I want to assure you that my door is always open to students and parents. Please contact me with any questions. I promise our staffulty will communicate regularly to update you on your child’s progress, ensuring you feel involved and informed. This open communication policy keeps parents informed and makes them feel part of their child's educational journey. 

You have seen me use the word staffulty above to describe all of us working with your children. We are all on the same team: teachers, teacher assistants, RBTs, secretaries, facilities staff, administration, and more. We are all working together with you, the parents and guardians, to support student growth and success. 

Please refer to the information page in this mailing for essential dates and details regarding the BRIDGE Academy. 

I am genuinely looking forward to working with you and your children, and I am excited about the journey we will embark on together. 

Sincerely,
John R. Rathburn
Principal