Neighbor News
Bridge Academy Students Support HomeFront
The Bridge Academy students handmade over 100 fleece scarves for children in need.
Recently, students at The Bridge Academy in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, completed a successful community service project as part of The Bridge Academy Social House Program. They collected new coats, hats and gloves for the local charity – HomeFront. In addition to collecting items, the student made scarves for the drive. Collectively, they made over 100 fleece scarves while putting their own personal touch on each.
As part of the school’s Social House Program, students participate in several community service projects throughout the school year. The program involves the participation of the entire Bridge Academy student body (currently, 68 children, aged 8-18), their teachers, and parents. “The Social House system is specifically designed to enhance student camaraderie, build school spirit, and impact the broader community,” explained Brad Gingrich, who teaches Social Studies at The Bridge Academy, and along with Language Arts teacher Cathy Bongiovanni, are Social House Committee Co-Chairs.
A key factor in the success of The Bridge Academy Social House Program is that the houses are student led. Although staff members are available to assist the children, each group has student-elected Presidents, Vice Presidents, and Secretaries. During meetings, which take place approximately twice per month, teachers are available for consultation, but student office holders share information, take minutes, and provide guidance for fellow group members.
Find out what's happening in Lawrencevillefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
“All students, regardless of age or grade, play a vital role in organizing and implementing these service opportunities. It is the goal that the students will gain a better understanding of today’s world as well as an increased appreciation for the needs of others,” explained co-leader Cathy Bongiovanni.
The Bridge Academy is an independent school for students with language-based learning disabilities, like dyslexia, auditory processing disorder or ADHD. It is the only Orton-Gillingham accredited program in New Jersey. For more information about The Bridge Academy, please call 609-844-0770 or visit the school’s website at www.banj.org.
