Bridges Area Learning Center
Quarter 3 Community Newsletter
Greetings Bridges Community,
Our work at Bridges ALC is to re-define students' educational journey in order for them to successfully progress towards earning their PLHS diploma for post-secondary education or gainful employment.
Now, more than ever we are poised for this work to support our students' pathway to graduation as our core design team is underway planning and designing our NEW ALC! It is truly spectacular to be part of this amazing opportunity. Being able to design a school to meet the needs of our students, staff and community is an special opportunity to be able to support these needs in ways we have not be able to before - especially after 9 years in our current space. Space is a vital component in learning. I could not be more thrilled to be able to design a new school where our students have the best space possible to be and conduct their learning.
Our immediate next steps will be touring newly built and designed ALC's to see and experience how spaces at similar schools support learning. I am looking forward to keeping you updated on this amazing journey! Please feel free to check in with me and/or our district website for Bridges updates and updates on many other projects thanks to voter approval @ www.priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us/about-us/construction-updates.
As we enter this time of the year it can be difficult for some as the Winter is still upon us, days are still shorter and we have a good deal of time before Spring break. Here at Bridges we are fortunate to have BOTH a quality teaching staff and a highly effective student support team. We know there is a relationship between academic success and social/emotional success. At Bridges we strive to meet students' needs where they are at in both areas and support their growth.
I think of this quarter as the calm before the busyness which is quarter 4. There are not a lot of big things going on during this time. Quarter 4, however, is the exact opposite in that there are MANY big events going on - state testing, senior recognition banquet, all school picnic, commencement to name just a few!!
Also, now is the time to look closely at graduation projections. Many students need to complete some online classes through independent study (more info below) in order to get to that finish line where graduation standards have been met and a PLHS diploma can be issued. As a result, increased focus on daily classes, taking advantage of our JUMP DAYS (more info below) and getting done with any independent study classes are more important than ever. I know that June is still months away but it will be here before we know it!!
Warm Regards,
David Brown
Bridges ALC Coordinator
#WeArePLSAS
#bridges1618
Bridges Mission - To support students' successful progress toward acquiring their high school diploma leading to gainful employment or post-secondary education.
Bridges In The News
Save the Date! 2018 Senior Recognition Banquet @ The Wilds's Club House in Prior Lake Tuesday, June 5th @ 5:30pm
Last Year's Banquet - Spectacular Evening!
Mr. Brown taking a Selfie at the podium with some grads
Student Keynote speaker Bridges Grad Private First Class Shelby
Keynote speaker Dr. Lund - retired PLHS principal
Looking at new and current educational spaces as we are now in the design process of our NEW ALC!
Flexible classroom and common space at Spring Lake Park High School
Shakopee High School Classrooms
Wayzata High School Common Area
Burnsville High School Flexible Classrooms
Student Reflection - Anyang
When I first came to bridges I was kind of unsure but I soon loved it. The teachers are amazing, the students are great. There's really no way for you to hate it here. I think people really do underestimate this school, this is one of the best choices I've ever made in my 18 years of living and I would never have it any other way ! Ever since I've been here I made so many friends and have a great connection with my teachers.
Here's some advice I gave myself when transferred over to bridges Alc
You don't have to be best friend with everyone but try to get along with people
Focus on what you came to do
And of course have a blast !
Student Reflection - Desirey
Before I came here I was struggling a lot with school and talking or socializing with people. I hated coming to school because I had no friends and my grades were horrible, but all that changed when I started at Bridges. There are many reasons why I enjoy attending here. One reason is because the teachers here care a lot about their students and help them succeed, another reason is there is more flexibility. My future goals in life are to become a veterinarian. To become one I have to make sure I have all my credits, graduate, go to college, graduate again, and eventually be licensed as a vet. Now that I go to Bridges the teachers can have more one on one time with me and give me advice and help me reach my future goal. I've done so much better with my grades, socializing, and I actually like coming to school.
That's why I love and recommend coming to Bridges!
Student Reflection - Jake
My name is Jake, and Bridges ALC, with all it’s wonderful and caring staff, changed my life. I’ve attended a couple of traditional settings until I found Bridges ALC. I first came here before my sophomore year to make up some credits that were not offered at my previous private school and quickly realized that I now had an alternative to the experience I’d soon have at the high school.
Bridges is a place where students can learn at their own pace in small classes with a staff who genuinely cares that every student graduates and are guided to do so. If this guidance is not needed, students who’d normally be constrained by deadlines, standardized testing, and piles of homework can thrive, dependent on themselves instead of a system they might not fit into. For many teenagers, the normal high school experience is right for them, but for many that’s not the case, and for them I proudly suggest Bridges.
Bridges September Student of the Month - Ben
From his teachers - Ben always gets it done. He is responsible, kind and fun to have in class!
Bridges October Student of the Month - Marlot
From her teachers - Positive attitude, always does her best, and has fantastic participation in class discussions.
Bridges November Student of the Month - Ja'Mar
From his teachers - Motivated, friendly, always smiling, relates well to both students as well as staff, uses self-advocacy
Bridges December Student of the Month - Eryn
From her teachers - Great part of our learning community!
January Student of the Month - Sami
From her teachers - Great student, has been a leader in class and the school community!
Quarter 3 Conferences!
We hope to see you then!
Thursday, Feb 23, 2017, 05:00 PM
Bridges Area Learning Center
Teacher Corner: Melissa Olson
“It always seems impossible until it is done.”
In one of my favorite poems, E.E. Cummings described spring as mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful. These adjectives make me radiate with the possibility of spring. In my classroom, spring represents the binary nature of Minnesota in March. The end of snow stomped off in the doorways and too-big coats hanging on hooks; traded effortlessly for the beginning of jeans dragging wet from hem to ankle and too-early tank tops under reluctantly worn hoodies. It is the time of change. It marks the turn of the clock. It tells us that the second half of our school year is well under way.
This is an exciting time at Bridges ALC. Our design team has begun the energizing process of conceptualizing a new, much-deserved educational space for Bridges’ students; and the glint of graduation’s grand stage has begun to shine in the corner of our graduate’s eyes. Two months ago, most of us dared not dream of June. However, the finish line is closer than we think. The annual journey students and staff take together at Bridges ALC has hit the point of bifurcation. We are joyfully halfway there. There have been twists, turns, and bumps; as well as effortless flow.
Nelson Mandela said, “It always seems impossible until it is done.” And for some of Bridges’ students, that couldn’t be more true. Many have worked tirelessly earning credits once lost, while dedicating what other teenagers consider “free time” to long hours caring for family members and holding down jobs. This dedication is cause for celebration. And even though the snow has yet to melt, I have no doubt that the second half of the year will be both mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful. The impossibilities of fall have been paved smooth into the possibilities of spring.
JUMP DAY the Only Difference in Bridges Calendar to PLHS
Our school calendar is the same as Prior Lake High School (days off, start/end of quarters, etc) with the exception of JUMP DAYS. These days are designed for students to jump ahead with their grades, academic skills and attendance. During JUMP DAYS we pause regularly scheduled classes and switch to a block schedule (four periods instead of seven). Students are scheduled in periods for interventions and enrichment based on their progress during the quarter. Additionally, students earn make up time for coming in on JUMP DAYS that will be applied to remove absences at the end of the quarter. All students will receive a HYBRID Ticket OR Bridges Ticket before each JUMP DAY. You will receive an email indicating which your student has received the day before JUMP DAY.
If students are progressing well in their classes and there are no issues with attendance they may earn a HYBRID Ticket allowing student choice on where to conduct learning – at Bridges or on their own. If they have received a HYBRID pass students will need to check in with the HYBRID teacher for the JUMP DAY and determine what learning and classes will be done if they will not be coming into Bridges (Plato online classes, class projects or work, project based learning – all of which can be found in students’ learning management system: Schoology).
If students receive a Bridges Ticket they will be expected to attend at Bridges for the JUMP DAY and will be scheduled with teachers that will help support academic progress or skill development. Students earning a Bridges Ticket will have their attendance count towards the attendance policy (7 absences = no credit). Students will be marked absent if they do not attend.
Q3 JUMP DAYS
- Feb 9th & 23th
March 9th 23rd
Apr 4th & 6th
Quarter 3 Significant Dates
Feb 9 - JUMP DAY
Feb 19 - No Classes
Feb 22 - Conferences: 5pm to 8pm
March 9 - JUMP DAY
March 12 - 16 - SPRING BREAK
March 23 - JUMP DAY
March 29 - ACT Pre-test
April 3rd - ACT (juniors), MCA Reading (sophomores), 9th & 12th Grade - No School
April 4 - JUMP DAY
April 5 - JUMP DAY/Early Release - Last Day of 3
April 9 - Q4 Start
Bridges Staff and Contact Information
David Brown - ALC Coordinator
Email: dbrown@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226.0846
Twitter: @davidwbrown39
Teaching Staff
Melissa Olson - Teacher (Language Arts)
Email: meolson@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226-0841
Twitter: @PLSAS_Olson
Andrew Martin - Teacher (Math, FABLAB, Projects) & Independent Study Coordinator
Independent Study is held Tuesday's from 3:30pm to 6:00pm
Email: amartin@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226-0844
Twitter: @mrmatinium
David Lawson - Teacher (Social Studies)
Email: dlawson@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226-0848
Twitter: @EdinaEast78
Chris Nelson - Teacher (Art, Phy Ed)
Email: cnelson@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226-0842
Twitter: @Ms_Cnelson
Candi Jenkins - Teacher (SPED)
Email: cjenkins@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226-0843
Twitter: @sped_jenkins
Alexius Serefeas - Teacher (Language Arts, Science)
Email: aserefeas@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Twitter: @PLSAS_Serefeas
Student Support Staff
Denise Schmidt - Bridges Secretary
Email: dschmidt@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226-0840
Ann Collins - (Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor)
Email: acollins@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226-0847
Twitter: @AnnCollins1516
Kevin Wagner - Social Worker
Email: kwagner@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226-0849
Jenny Bauer - Guidance Counselor
Email: jbauer@priorlake-savage.k12.mn.us
Phone: 952-226-0855
Twitter: @imjentwitt
Erik Elsberry - Therapist
Bridges ALC Testing Schedule
- Thursday, March 29th - ACT Pre-Test (required)- Juniors Only
- Tuesday, April 3rd -- ACT - Juniors, MCA Reading - Sophomores. No School - Digital Learning Day for 9th grade & seniors.
- Monday April 9th – MCA Math Test - Juniors. MCA Science test - select students. JUMP Day if others want to report to school.
- Fri & Monday April 13 & May 1 - MCA Makeups
- Tuesday, April 24 – ACT Make Ups
A Test Security Tip Line has been set up by MDE for reporting security breaches and potentially unethical behavior related to testing. Any action that jeopardizes the integrity of a secure test or gives an unfair advantage to a student or group of students is a breach of security.
Individuals who have concerns about test security practices are encouraged to raise their concerns with their District Assessment Coordinator before contacting MDE. Minnesota Statewide Test Security Tip Line.
From Bridges Student Support Team: Kevin Wagner, Social Worker
Hello to the Bridges community!
Winter is a very difficult time for many students and families. The lack of sunlight, the freezing temperatures and the cabin fever many people feel is reaching a fever pitch. This can be a time of greatly increased stress for students and families alike. People suffering from depression and anxiety are typically experiencing an increase in symptoms due to the weather and inability to get outside. Anger outbursts, arguments, frayed nerves, and extreme stress are just a few of the symptoms experienced by families. This is a good time to remember that there are local services that can help when things get overwhelming. Here are just a few that may be helpful:
Scott County Mental Health Crisis Line: (24 hours) 952-442-7601
Scott County Mental Health Center: 952-496-8481
National Alliance on Mental Illness, Scott County: 952-890-1669
United Way First Call for Help: Dial 211
American Red Cross: (24 hour hotline) 612-871-7676
Salvation Army: 952-898-2736
CAP Agency: (housing assistance): 952-496-2125
Medical Assistance: (Scott County) 952-445-7751
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Recently @ Bridges
Quarter 3 Off to a Great Start!
Mr. Martin and students in between classes
Bridges students hurrying into school on a cold start to the day!
Eryn presenting in Ms. Olson's Com III class
Mr. Lawson's guest speaker in Econ speaking on personal finance and credit
Ms. Jenkins's Music Appreciation Class
Katie's Art Work
Emily, Lacey and Penn's Art
Emma's Art
All School Lunch
Mr. Lawson's Global Class
Former Bridges Grads Checking In!
Ryan checking in on a break from work
Troy stopping by on a break from his job in Miami
STRIVE (PL Rotary & Bridges ALC Mentor Program) having a great year at Bridges!
Enjoying Time @ Fongs
STRIVE Guest speaker on Addictions
STRIVE mentor Chad speaking on interviewing
Independent Study
Do you know of a student that is behind on credits? Independent Study is a great way for students to make up those lost credits.
Here at Bridges we offer a flexible online based program to get students the credits they need. After a student determines their credit needs, they simply fills out a registration form, brings it in, and they are ready to go within minutes. Each student is enrolled in a class through a browser based program called PLATO.
Each class a student signs up for requires a total of 10 hours of seat time here at Bridges, and this can be done after school on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. Once the attendance piece is completed the student will finish the course(s) on their own time. I’ve had many students get caught up, back on track, or even finish up for their diploma through Independent Study. It’s a great program and it provides a great service to our students.
For more info or to register your student please contact Mr. Martin, Bridges ALC Independent Study Coordinator.
Summer School & Summer Independent Study
Summer school registration will be available in the first week of May. All classes will be held at Bridges ALC.
Summer School will begin Monday, June 18th and end Friday, July 13th with no class July 4th and July 5th. There will be three sessions. Also listed below is a list of the credits your student needs. If your student is currently enrolled in other credit recovery (After School Program or Independent Study) your student can still register for summer school. If you have questions about credits, please contact me.
Students will be able to make up one quarter class each session. One quarter class is equivalent to .75 credits. Students needing to make up a quarter class (.75 credits) should register for one session, students needing 1.5 credits (or a semester) should register for two sessions and students needing 2.25 credits should register for all three sessions. 1 summer school session = 1 quarter class = 0.75 credits.
Please note that the majority of summer school classes will be delivered through the an online learning environment (Plato). Students will still need to attend summer school classes at Bridges ALC and adhere to the summer school attendance policy.
Summer Independent Study is different than summer school. This program is available for students needing more flexibility due to conflicts preventing them from consistently being at school during summer school. There is no set schedule for Summer IS. Rather, students need to complete time (amount based on age) anytime the school is open in addition to completing and passing their classes.
More info will be available as we get closure to registration open May 1st.