Bridges Pathways: 3rd Grade Entry Year
“[Bridges] has shown to be so caring, kind, and empathetic towards these kids, giving my child an opportunity to be himself and to grow.”
New for Fall 2026
Part of our Phoenix Program, this flexible-entry cohort serves bright, complex learners in the typical 3rd-grade range, with placement guided by readiness rather than age.
Not every gifted learner thrives in a traditional grade placement.
Pathways provides the right balance of challenge and support so students can build confidence, independence, and momentum.
Why families consider Pathways
- Gifted or capable of advanced thinking, but not consistently demonstrating that level in their current classroom
- Engaged by big ideas, while still developing organization, follow-through, or confidence
- Looking for a learning environment where they can feel understood, challenged, and excited about learning
ENTRY POINT
-3RD GRADE RANGE
CLASS SIZE
8 - 10 STUDENTS
SCHOOL DAY
9:00 AM - 1:30 PM
TUITION
$44,000
What Pathways looks like in practice
Pathways is a one-year, self-contained cohort of 8–10 students, designed to provide a more individualized starting point before entering Bridges’ 4–12 program.
Students receive dedicated instruction in reading, writing, and math, along with integrated, project-based learning in science and social studies. The experience is intentionally structured to balance academic challenge with the support students need to build confidence, independence, and readiness for what comes next.
How learning works
Instruction is aligned to 3rd-grade expectations, with flexibility for students working across levels.
Students engage daily in reading, writing, and math, while science and social studies are explored through integrated, project-based learning. Enrichment and talent development are woven throughout, allowing students to explore areas of strength and interest while deepening engagement.
How students are supported
Executive functioning and social-emotional development are integrated throughout the school day, helping students build the skills needed to engage more fully in their learning.
Each student receives an Individual Learning Plan to guide instruction, and classrooms are supported by a collaborative team that includes a lead teacher, assistant teacher, and access to a learning specialist and counselor.
The school day
The Pathways day runs from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM, allowing students to build cognitive stamina and regulation in a thoughtful, developmentally appropriate way.
Rather than relying on nightly homework, students develop organization and independence within the school day. Formal homework expectations are introduced later, with support, as students are ready.
What comes next
Pathways is designed as a one-year experience that prepares students for a confident transition into Bridges’ 4–12 program.
Families receive regular communication, progress updates, and opportunities to collaborate with teachers and staff. Readiness for next placement is thoughtfully assessed to ensure each student moves forward with the appropriate level of challenge and support.
Schedule a conversation to talk through your child’s profile and whether Pathways could be a strong fit.
LIVE Financial Aid Webinars
Live sessions have now concluded, watch a recording to revisit the information.
Watch a recording of the September webinar
(Passcode: 9%8=m6pH)
WEBINAR #2 – October 21, 7:00 pm
WEBINAR #3 – December 9, 5:30 pm
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LEARNING HERE FEELS DIFFERENT.
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