Rediscover Innovation
Raising the Bar in 2e Education
How Bridges Academy is Shaping the Future of Teaching, Learning, and Talent Development
At Bridges Academy, innovation isn’t a buzzword. It’s our baseline.
In 2024–25, our faculty and the 2e Center for Research and Professional Development took bold steps to further refine our strength-based, talent-focused model of education for gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) students. This work wasn’t theoretical — it was hands-on, collaborative, and deeply student-centered. Our goal remains clear: to create a learning environment where complex learners don’t just get by — they thrive.
“It might seem odd that such a small school could have such a large impact on our lives. … I first entered the building with hope. That was one of the rare times where my hope was not false.” – Cameron, Class of 2024
What did we focus on this year?
•Intentional Curriculum Design
We adopted a schoolwide unit planning template for Grades 4–12 to foster coherence, depth, and creativity across subjects. Faculty collaborated across departments on its development and rollout, supported by a new Curriculum Implementation Team. This shared framework empowers teachers to design learning experiences that are purposeful and flexible — two essential ingredients in reaching 2e learners.
•Stronger Instructional Practice
Every teacher participated in a reflective observation cycle anchored in updated teaching standards co-developed by faculty themselves. Bridges educators also led nine sessions at the California Association for the Gifted conference, sharing our unique instructional approach with colleagues statewide.
“Bridges faculty truly understands the complexity of teaching this population. … It has been a game-changer for our family.” – Parent, via Private School Review
•A Research-Informed Assessment Policy
We are aligning assessment with what matters most: authentic student growth. A new schoolwide assessment policy will launch in 2025–26, paired with a full-year professional learning calendar. The result will be better tools for understanding progress — academic, social, and executive functioning alike.
•The 2e Center’s Expanding Impact
This year, Bridges Parent University partnered with SENG (Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted) for the first time, bringing new depth to our annual family learning event. The 2e Center also hosted visiting scholars and a public Speaker Series addressing topics such as ADHD, trauma, and college transitions. These programs continue to position Bridges as a national hub for family engagement and professional insight.
•Talent Development in Action
Through our Young Experts Program, students shared original research and creative work with authentic audiences, building both confidence and capacity. Our Phoenix students advanced to the State Math League Championships (with one headed to nationals!), and others earned honors from Scholastic Art, The New York Times, NPR, and beyond.
“Without Bridges Academy, I never would have met these incredible people. … If I had never made this decision in my life, everything would have changed, forever.” – Jack, graduate
Looking Ahead
We’re not slowing down. Bridges is actively collaborating on grant proposals with partners — including Yale, Columbia, UConn, and the Spencer Foundation — to help shape the national conversation on how to support twice-exceptional learners.
If you’re a parent wondering what’s possible for your child, or a professional seeking the right match for a student who hasn’t yet been understood, Bridges may be the turning point.
Learn more or schedule a visit: https://bridges.edu
Kayla Franklin Waesche Director of Enrollment and Financial Aid
818-506-1091
admissions@bridges.edu