The time teachers spent addressing disruptive behavior was valuable time lost to instruction. When a neighborhood church became available for sale, we identified local and state funding to purchase the site and then renovate it to include classrooms, cafeteria and gymnasium. Now in its second year, New Bridge Elementary School offers 3rd, 4th and 5th grade classes with about 12 students in each. Students enter New Bridge through a referral process, initiated by the principal of the traditional school, a teacher or parent with input from the counselor. Careful attention was paid to staffing New Bridge.
Lessons are individualized and student-centered and mentoring is in place as a strong reinforcement.
Reading instruction is a focus area for all students. Each New Bridge student is working directly with a University of Richmond graduate student twice a week as their individual mentor who helps the student with social skills, self-discipline and academic skills. Teachers already report improvements in class performance, especially attendance and behavior. Now she is gaining confidence and a desire to learn and to please. Thank goodness we had this choice.