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What Does Neurodivergent Mean? A Parent’s Guide to Understanding Learning Differences
Businesses and schools are currently preparing for neurodiversity week, and as such, it and similar terms like neurodivergence are being used across several media, some talking about the importance of inclusion, others explaining why some kids take 3 hours to finish homework. In that sea of technical to educational information, it gets to a point…
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A Message to Our Bridges Parent Community
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.
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From Portland to the World: Why This Moment for Neurodiversity—and Bridges—Matters
Last week, a conversation that began with a single idea—representation matters—traveled farther than we could have imagined. According to our media release report, coverage of Bridges’ response to the autistic Barbie resulted in over 500 media placements across major national outlets, regional newsrooms, and international publications, with a potential reach exceeding 135 million readers worldwide.
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Belonging, in a Box: Why Mattel’s Autistic Barbie Matters
When Mattel introduced its new autistic Barbie, it did more than add another doll to the shelf—it opened a door. For many children and families, that door has been closed far too long.
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Healthy Vending Program
Bridges Middle School is excited to introduce our new Healthy Snack and Beverage Vending Machines! These machines are stocked exclusively with Oregon Department of Education–approved healthy snack and drink options, ensuring students have access to nutritious items throughout the school day.
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Rethinking Middle School: Meeting the Moment for Neurodiverse Learners
For 14 years, I’ve served as Executive Director of a middle school built for neurodiverse students. Every day, I see the same truth play out: the traditional middle school model—designed around uniformity, compliance, and pace—doesn’t work for neurodivergent learners. It wasn’t built for them.Across the country, we are seeing rising numbers of students diagnosed with…
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Week 5 (September 6)
We’ve been so busy getting the school ready for next week that we haven’t had a chance to film a video update! Everyone on our team has been hard at work preparing classrooms, organizing materials, and putting the finishing touches on everything to make Monday’s Open House extra special. We can’t wait to welcome you…
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Week 4 (Aug 30)
It has been a busy and exciting week here at Bridges Middle School! With both returning and new staff members, we’ve been hard at work setting up classrooms, organizing materials, and making sure everything is ready for an incredible school year. Things are truly coming together, and we cannot wait to welcome you into our…
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Week 3 (Aug 22, 2025)
We’re excited to share the third in a series of short weekly video updates to keep you informed as we move through this critical season of change at Bridges. View a video message from Dr. Carrie Hall, Principal | A Quick Update. You’ll also find a link to our recent press release and our new…
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Week 2 (Aug 15, 2025)
We’re excited to share the second in a series of short weekly video updates to keep you informed and involved as we move through this important season of change at Bridges. WEEK 2: Beven Byrnes, Executive Director | Building Lease + Strategic Plan + Organizational Vision Dr. Carrie Hall, Principal | Staff Heroes + Student…
