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STAFF SPOTLIGHT: KAREN PANE, OFFICE MANAGER
At Bridges Middle School, our front desk is often the first stop for students and families—and the person behind it plays a huge role in setting the tone. That’s why we’re so grateful to have Karen Pane as our office manager. With a warm heart, quick mind, and first-hand experience as a Bridges parent, Karen…
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TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: HEATHER HOFELD
If you’ve been part of the Bridges Middle School community for any length of time, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Heather Hofeld. As one of our longest-standing educators—19 years and counting—Heather has worn many hats, taught numerous subjects, and left an indelible mark on the school’s history and heart.
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ROCKSTAR TEACHERS WANTED FOR 2025/2026!
Bridges Middle School is one of the few schools in Oregon devoted to students with learning differences and the only one focused exclusively on the middle school years. Bridges offers 5th through 8th grade students small class sizes, differentiated instruction, and a safe place to learn and grow. For many Bridges students, this means the…
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STAFF SPOTLIGHT: JORDAN MILLER, SCHOOL COUNSELOR + FITNESS
Bridges is thrilled to welcome Jordan Miller to our counseling team! He brings a dynamic mix of experience, energy, and a passion for helping students grow—both mentally and physically. Opening Deal From an early age, Jordan was always moving. Whether it was basketball, soccer, football, capture the flag, or kickball, Jordan was the kind of…
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STAFF SPOTLIGHT: ARIANNA CROPP, SCHOOL COUNSELOR + ART THERAPIST
At Bridges, fostering creativity and emotional growth is a cornerstone of student success. We’re thrilled to welcome Arianna Cropp, our new counselor and art therapist, whose unique blend of artistic expertise and therapeutic support is primed to make a lasting impact. A Unicorn with Artistic Roots Arianna grew up in the vibrant Sellwood neighborhood, where…
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TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: ASHLEY BARTHOLOMEW
Our latest spotlight focuses on Ashley Bartholomew, a dedicated educator whose passion for building confidence and creating a supportive environment is making a lasting impact on our school community Rooted in Oregon: A Lifelong Journey in Education Ashley grew up in Milwaukie, Oregon, and has spent her entire life in the Pacific Northwest. “I’ve lived…
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STAFF SPOTLIGHT: MARY MORRIS, SCHOOL COUNSELOR
At Bridges, we believe that supporting the whole child—socially, emotionally, and academically—is at the heart of education. Our staff is committed to this mission, and we’re thrilled to introduce Mary Morris, our new school counselor, who embodies this approach through her diverse experiences and deep passion for supporting students. From Hollywood to Helping Kids Born…
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Navigating the Eight Senses: Sensory Processing Differences in Neurodivergent Kids
We experience the world through eight main senses: Sight (Visual): How we see colors, shapes, and movement. Hearing (Auditory): How we hear sounds, like music or voices. Smell (Olfactory): How we detect and recognize different scents. Taste (Gustatory): How we taste sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors. Touch (Tactile): How we feel textures, temperature, and…
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A Safe Haven for Neurodiverse Children and Their Families in Uncertain Times
In today’s ever-changing world, uncertainty seems to be a constant. From global events to personal challenges, many families are navigating uncharted waters, searching for stability and support. For neurodiverse children and their families, these challenges can be even more overwhelming. At Bridges Middle School, we understand the importance of providing a safe, inclusive and nurturing…
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Student Experience Trends Through the Year at Bridges
Bridges staff members anticipate these experiences and adjust student support accordingly. However, please keep in mind that each student is a unique individual and may have these experiences at their own pace, if at all.