-
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: ZACH ZEUTZIUS, PARAEDUCATOR
Every great story has a hero’s journey — and for Zach Zeutzius, that story begins right here at Bridges Middle School. Once a Bridges student learning to embrace his differences, Zach now helps the next generation feel seen, supported, and celebrated for exactly who they are. His life reads like a full-circle screenplay about compassion,…
-
BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: BODO HEILIGER
For Bridges Middle School Board Member Bodo Heiliger, education has always been more than academics. It’s about creating spaces where every student feels seen, supported, and celebrated. His life story, from multilingual beginnings in Europe to leading the International School of Portland, reflects both resilience and a deep belief in the power of inclusive, child-centered…
-
BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: KARA BADER
When you meet Kara Bader, you’re immediately struck by her warmth, curiosity, and sincere compassion. A Bridges parent and board member, Kara brings a unique blend of professional expertise, nonprofit experience, and lived understanding of the neurodiverse community. Her journey — from the Montana mountains to a leadership role strengthening our mission — reflects both…
-
BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: JENNIFER ROLLINS
If you ask Jennifer Rollins about her path to Bridges Middle School, she’ll tell you it’s been a journey filled with curiosity, courage, and a dash of serendipity. A longtime board member, Jennifer has helped navigate Bridges through some of its most transformative years — from legal transitions and new campuses to the school’s evolution…
-
Rethinking “Extended Time”: A Closer Look at What Truly Helps Students with ADHD
A recent Education Week article by Elizabeth Heubeck, titled “Does Extended Time on Tests Actually Help Students with ADHD?”, takes a critical look at one of the most widely used classroom accommodations: giving students with ADHD extra time to complete assignments or exams. Rather than relying on external controls, like rigid break schedules or extended…
-
TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: JESSICA CONSLA
If you ask Jessica Consla why she became a teacher, she’ll tell you it’s because she’s always been curious about people—their stories, their challenges, and the unique strengths they bring to the table. That curiosity, combined with her own experiences as a student who once struggled in school, has shaped the thoughtful and compassionate educator…
-
TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: AMANDA HILAND
Bridges is delighted to welcome Amanda Hiland to our team this fall! Amanda brings with her a lifelong love of writing, a passion for the stars, and years of experience working alongside students with learning differences. Her story shows how early friendships, creativity, and curiosity led her to a career dedicated to helping every student…
-
TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: MELISSA PERRONE
We’re pleased to introduce Melissa Perrone to the Bridges community! Melissa brings a deep love of reading and writing, a passion for math, and a strong commitment to helping students discover their confidence. With a winding path that took her from a tight-knit school in Illinois to classrooms across Portland, Melissa’s journey is rich with…
-
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: DR. CARRIE HALL, PRINCIPAL
For many in our community, Dr. Carrie Hall needs no introduction. Whether she’s personally welcoming students and families at drop-off or advocating for students’ rights and needs, Carrie has always embodied the spirit of Bridges. A Small Town Start Carrie grew up in the small rural town of Fernley, Nevada. Surrounded by animals, a big…
-
STAFF SPOTLIGHT: RYLIE LEON, PARAEDUCATOR
At Bridges, we know that for many of our students, this is the first place they’ve ever truly felt like they belonged. Our goal is for that sense of safety and connection to extend to the whole family—and Rylie Leon’s story is a powerful reflection of that mission. Early Years From a very young age,…
