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 brings both professionalism and deep empathy to her role. We invite you to get to know the story behind the smile that greets you when you visit our school.
A Familiar Face at the Front Desk
Karen joined the Bridges team in January 2022, originally to help with a few projects. The timing turned out to be perfect. Our previous office manager chose to pursue a new opportunity, and Karen stepped in full-time. Coming out of the pandemic, she was ready for more social connection and brainwork and a little less Netflix. Bridges offered all of that and more.
A Parent’s Perspective
Karen is no stranger to the challenges that bring families to Bridges. Her daughter, Clara, had attended in middle school. The decision to enroll was deeply personal. “We chose Bridges for safety,” Karen says. “I didn’t think public school could keep her safe from her bullies. She needed time to work on herself and figure out what support she needed to succeed.” That lived experience gives Karen a special insight when meeting new families. “Nobody’s shopping just for fun. They’re here because they’re scared and not sure what to do. I’ve been there.”
From California to the Fens of England
Karen’s life journey has taken her across the U.S. and overseas. Born in Medford, Oregon, and raised in Concord, California, she joined the Rainbow Girls—a Masonic youth organization—as a preteen. While decked out in floor-length gowns and later hoop skirts, she developed confidence, leadership skills, and a strong sense of service. In high school, she spent a transformative senior year abroad in rural England, attending a comprehensive school in Market Deeping. “I came back a completely different person. So much more confident,” she shares. That year abroad significantly impacted the course of her life.
A Career in Service and Support
After earning a Business Administration degree from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, Karen landed a production management role with a tech firm called Teradyne. It was here she met and started dating her future husband, John. He had joined the company’s Agoura Hills location the same month as Karen; however, they didn’t meet until a mutual coworker set them up. They dated for three years and were engaged for one. During this period, her husband transferred to Beaverton, Oregon, and Karen joined him a few years later. They wed and welcomed twin daughters, Gwen and Clara. During those early years of motherhood, Karen focused full-time on parenting: navigating therapy, OT appointments, and playdates for her children. “We weren’t going to have more kids,” she explains, “so I didn’t want to miss any of it.”
Looking to the Future
Returning to the workforce at Bridges felt like a natural next step. “I feel like we’re nearing a growth spurt,” Karen says, “and I want to ensure that goes smoothly.” Her sharp organizational skills and strong relationships with students, families, and staff make her an essential part of our community.
Life Outside of Bridges
When she’s not keeping the front office running like clockwork, Karen loves puzzles, traveling, and spending time with her rescue Aussie, Vegas, and her cat, Honey (a foster fail from Meow Village). Past adventures have taken her across Europe, and she’s excitedly preparing for her upcoming college graduation trip to Barcelona, Florence, Venice, and London with her daughter Gwen.
Whether you’re a longtime Bridges family member or walking in for the first time, you’re in good hands with Karen at the front desk. We’re so lucky to have her on the team—and even luckier that she decided to come out of “retirement” to join us.