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Bridges Middle School Awarded National ASE Larry Marone Grant
We’re proud to announce that we have been selected as a 2025-2026 recipient of the ASE Larry Marone Grant, a national honor recognizing excellence in art education within special education settings.
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Supporting Neurodivergent Students in Middle School: cityCURRENT
We’re thrilled to share that Beven Byrnes, Executive Director of Bridges Middle School, is now featured on the cityCURRENT Show, a nationally syndicated program celebrating changemakers and community impact. In this inspiring episode, Beven—also a mom, advocate, and author—shares her personal journey and deep conviction that education must be designed to meet students where they…
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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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A DECADE OF FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP
Over the past decade (FY2015 – FY2024), Bridges Middle School has demonstrated consistent, mission-driven financial stewardship. A recent review of ten years of IRS Form 990 data — supplemented by recent draft financials — shows a stable operating model that prioritizes student learning, access, and long-term sustainability. In other words, Bridges has remained financially strong…
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Supporting Neurodivergent Littles Through Travel, Family Events & Schedule Changes
Travel, holidays, and family gatherings can be exciting moments, but for neurodivergent young children, they can also be overwhelming. Loud environments, unfamiliar faces, and disrupted routines often create sensory and emotional challenges that families must navigate with care.
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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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BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: KIM KENNEY
Kim’s love for design and problem-solving began at the age seven when her grandmother introduced her to a Singer sewing machine. She studied design atOregon State University, earning a B.S. in Apparel Design with a Minor in Merchandising Management. At OSU, she directed the Annual Fashion Show and served as Student Ambassador to her college…
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BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: CATHY REYNOLDS
From Northern Ireland to Portland, Oregon, Cathy Reynolds has built her life around public service, leadership, and compassion. A successful HR executive and proud Bridges parent, Cathy brings her deep understanding of people and purpose to her role on the Bridges Board.
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Our Executive Director Gives Testimony in Support of Safety, Stability, and Compassion for Portland’s Kids
Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at City Hall, leaders from three Portland schools, including our own Executive Director, Beven Byrnes, delivered clear, compelling testimony urging the Portland City Council to reject proposed mid-year cuts to the City’s Impact Reduction Program (IRP) and other vital sanitation, safety, and outreach services. Representing students from preschool through high school,…
