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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…
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Week 1 (Aug 6, 2025)
We’re excited to share the first 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 1: Dr. Carrie Hall, Principal | Staffing Updates Beven Byrnes, Executive Director | Building Move + Communication Timeline Kara Bader, Current Parent and…
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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…
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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,…
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TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: TODD VALENTINE
After spending the latter part of this past school year supporting our students as a substitute, we’re excited to welcome Todd Valentine to our full-time Ravens’ teaching team! Todd brings a vibrant blend of science expertise, humor, and heartfelt connection to his work with students, and he’s deeply committed to helping neurodiverse learners discover their…
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STAFF SPOTLIGHT: BEVEN BYRNES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
An Unorthodox Path That WorkedIf there’s one thing Beven Byrnes wants you to know, it’s this: her journey to educational leadership was anything but traditional—and that’s exactly what makes it work. Growing up in Portland, Beven’s upbringing was anything but ordinary. With two trailblazing moms who both worked at OHSU—one a pharmacist, the other a…
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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…
