Amidst all the joyful preparation happening across our school community—from the Lunar New Year to Autistic Barbie—I wanted to take a moment to speak honestly with you about the heaviness many of us are feeling in light of the horrific events unfolding in Minnesota, Maine, and right here in Portland.
Recent fatal shootings, racial profiling, and arrests by federal agents have sparked protests and deep public anguish across the country. These moments stir fear, grief, and concern, especially for the safety and well-being of our children, our families, and every member of the Bridges community.
I am incredibly proud to lead Bridges and deeply grateful for the ways our diversity enriches us—through languages, cultures, histories, traditions, and perspectives. I have never taken lightly the responsibility entrusted to me to help ensure that our school remains a safe, nurturing place for every child and family.
At the same time, I feel a profound weight: anger, sorrow, and deep frustration at the fear and violence that so many continue to experience in our community and country. I know these realities feel deeply personal for many of our families. They remind us why our work—educating with empathy, respect, open-mindedness, and compassion—is so essential.
Please know that we are firmly committed to our clear and strict policies about who is – and isn’t – allowed on our campus. Please know that our campus is always locked down with no access points into our school without approved clearance, first. Border Patrol, now ICE agents, will not be permitted on our campus without a legal and verified warrant granting such access. The safety of our students, families, and staff is non-negotiable.
Our community includes immigrant families and others for whom public scrutiny can feel frightening or destabilizing. They—and all of you—deserve peace, protection, and calm. Staying grounded in our mission and caring for our students with intention and integrity is itself a powerful and meaningful form of resistance.
At Bridges, we will continue to teach and model respect for culture, honor differing perspectives, and support our students in learning how to contribute to a more just and peaceful world. We remain united in our values, our purpose, and our care for one another, and we will continue to protect a safe and nurturing environment for all.
As educators and families, we share a powerful role in shaping not only young minds, but also young hearts. That work—of nurturing curiosity, compassion, critical thinking, and courageous dialogue—matters deeply, especially in moments like these.
Thank you for the trust you place in Bridges and for the care you show our community each day. If you have questions, concerns, or simply need space to talk through what you’re feeling, please know that my door is always open.
With gratitude and care,
Beven Byrnes
