The Queen’s Gambit Comes to Westbridge
Inspired by the popular Netflix series, The Queen’s Gambit, I started playing chess with one of my students, “Joe.”
Celebrating Students
As part of our Social and Emotional Learning program, students learn how to identify positive character traits in each other, and accept positive feedback from staff and peers.
In the Moment
At Westbridge Academy, all the supports are in place to make every moment – even conflict – a moment of teaching and realization. Jose and Marco's situation is an example of how that works in practice every day at Westbrideg Academy.
From the Director’s Desk: Resilience
At Westbridge Academy, learning is intentionally rooted in resilience. Across every content area, we teach students to make a plan, pace themselves, take steps and implement them intentionally, reflect by taking breaks, and then repeat that process, making changes as dictated by successes and failures.
Do You Believe in Magic?
Students at Westbridge Academy got a dose of “Abracadabra” and “Hocus-pocus” when magician and scientist Tyrone Williams came to the school for a live show last summer.
Going Back
Last year, five of the students who left Westbridge Academy did not wear a gown or toss a hat in the air. In fact, they did not even earn a diploma. Rather, they were placed back into classrooms at their sending public school.
Community Connections
The Bloomfield Fire Department gave students at Westbridge Academy a hands-on learning experience. They had the chance to hold the fire hose, try on gear and hop into the drivers’ seat of the firetruck. They learned about fire safety and how to access emergency services.
Intakes During COVID-19
Many school districts have expressed interest in placing students with us, so we are offering options. Most districts and families have told us they prefer in-person intakes. Safety is always first.
Getting Connected: Now More than Ever, Connections Matter
Leaders at Westbridge have extended our school’s tech support team to help families and students, ensuring they have the devices and internet services they need.
Students Are Learning at Westbridge Academy
While COVID-19 may have prevented our doors from opening, it did not prevent our students from learning or our teachers from teaching.