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“An inclusive learning community builds bridges of understanding, awareness, and support by connecting children and families with a variety of different needs, cultures, and backgrounds ”

Our Mission

The mission of Bridges Public Charter School (BPCS) is to provide an exemplary, individualized early childhood and elementary educational program that includes students with special needs. Our developmentally appropriate, family and child-centered educational approach will nurture students to expand their developmental skills, in order to build a foundation for lifelong learning.

Our Philosophy

Bridges, the name of our school, symbolizes an inclusive learning community that builds bridges of understanding, awareness and support by connecting children and families with a variety of different needs, cultures and backgrounds. At Bridges we believe that inclusive education is beneficial to all of the students who have the opportunity to participate. Inclusion builds compassionate relationships among students, develops self-esteem in individuals, and develops the awareness that everyone has strengths and challenges.

The constructivist learning theories of Jean Piaget, John Dewey and L.S. Vygotsky are the foundation of Bridges' educational philosophy. These developmental theories support our student-centered, hands-on, active learning instructional approach. Constructivist learning theories maintain that learning is an active process. Bridges Public Charter School values the process and experience of learning as much as the product of learning.

    History

    Bridges Public Charter School was founded by Andrea Walders Singer, Olivia Smith and Erica Speight in 2005. The founding group's interest was to provide the DC community with a preschool program that has a child and family-centered approach to education and provides early intervention to students with special needs to ensure future school success. In March 2012 Bridges was granted approval by the DC Public Charter School Board to expand into an elementary school program to serve students in grades Pre-K 3 through 5th grade.

    Bridges PCS – At a Glance
    • 20 Years Serving DC Students Bridges Public Charter School has proudly supported children and families across Washington, DC for over two decades, providing an inclusive, nurturing, and high-quality educational experience.
    • 400+ Students Enrolled Our diverse and vibrant student body continues to grow as families choose Bridges for its strong academics, supportive environment, and commitment to inclusion.
    • 150 Dedicated Staff Members Our team includes teachers, specialists, and support staff who work collaboratively to ensure every child receives individualized attention and exceptional instruction.
    • Leaders in Inclusive Education Approximately 36% of our students receive special education services, and half of those students have higher-level needs. Bridges is recognized for its strong inclusive model that supports learners of all abilities.
    • A Diverse Teaching Staff Bridges educators reflect the rich diversity of the community we serve, helping to build strong relationships and culturally responsive classrooms.
    • Highly Qualified Instructional Team 74% of our Lead Teachers hold advanced degrees, bringing deep expertise and evidence-based practices to their classrooms.
    • A Building Designed for Children Our LEED Gold–certified school facility, opened in 2016, was intentionally designed to support young learners, accessibility needs, and inclusive learning environments.

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