The Voice of the District

Born and raised in Bridgeport, Principal Thompson's journey is a powerful example of perseverance, dedication, and the impact of public education.In this episode of The Voice of the District, Principal Thompson reflects on his path from Bridgeport Public Schools student to paraprofessional, educator, and now principal of Harding High School. He shares how his experiences growing up in the city shaped his leadership, the importance of building meaningful relationships with students, and the work underway to support student success at Harding.The conversation also highlights Harding's growing CNA program, student achievement efforts, school culture, and the unique ways Principal Thompson connects with students through music and mentorship.This is a story about leadership, opportunity, and giving back to the community that helped shape you.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. David Abbey of the Connecticut State Department of Education Technical Assistance Team to discuss the continued work and progress happening within the Bridgeport Public Schools Special Education Department.The conversation highlights the district’s adopted 2025–2026 Special Education Goals, focused on strengthening compliance, improving instructional support, expanding professional learning, increasing parent outreach, and building stronger connections between general and special education programming.Dr. Abbey discusses the ongoing collaboration between the Connecticut State Department of Education and Bridgeport Public Schools to improve systems and supports for students and families, including IEP quality training, curriculum development, expanded coaching for educators and administrators, and the development of a Special Education Blueprint Manual designed to create more consistent programming across the district.The episode also highlights the continued growth of the Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC), giving parents a stronger voice in the district through trainings, advocacy, and family engagement opportunities.Additionally, the district has made significant progress in staffing, reducing certified special education vacancies from more than 50 positions to only two remaining openings through ongoing recruitment and hiring efforts.We also discuss the district’s long-term vision for Special Education, including the future $74 million Special Education Center and the continued commitment to providing stronger supports, services, and opportunities for all students across Bridgeport Public Schools.Send us Fan Mail

The Voice of the District | Featuring Dr. Sarah Jane Henry, Principal of Dunbar SchoolIn this episode of The Voice of the District, we sit down with Dr. Sarah Jane Henry, principal of Dunbar School, to talk about her journey in education, her passion for student success, and the work happening each day inside the Dunbar community.Dr. Henry shares her vision for creating a positive and supportive school culture where students, staff, and families feel connected, valued, and empowered to grow. The conversation highlights the importance of strong relationships, consistent student experiences, and the exciting progress taking place at Dunbar School.Join us as we spotlight the leadership, care, and commitment helping shape the future of Bridgeport Public Schools one student at a time.DisclaimerBefore we begin, The Voice of the District serves as an open dialogue platform to engage members of the Bridgeport Public Schools community. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Bridgeport Public Schools or the Board of Education.Our goal is to keep our community informed through thoughtful and transparent conversations.Send us Fan Mail

Bridgeport leaders, elected officials, educators, and community members gathered at Fairchild Wheeler Interdistrict Multi-Magnet Campus to celebrate historic investments secured for Bridgeport Public Schools and the collective partnership that made it possible.Mayor Joe Ganim, Interim Superintendent Dr. Royce Avery, Chair of the State Delegation Christopher Rosario, members of the Bridgeport legislative delegation, City Council President Jeanette Herron and members of the City Council, Board of Education Chair Jennifer Perez, Board members, and community stakeholders came together following the passage of the State budget and City Council Budget Committee budget to recognize a major step forward for Bridgeport students and schools.The press conference highlighted a combined $35 million in proposed new funding support for Bridgeport Public Schools, including a $15 million increase in state Educational Cost Sharing funding and an additional $20 million in local and state support. Mayor Ganim and City Council leadership also discussed the City’s proposal to further increase local funding for Bridgeport Public Schools, which includes accelerating $10 million in local funding for the upcoming fiscal year and directing an additional $10 million in state Mohegan-Pequot funding to the district. The proposal is expected to advance to the full City Council for a final vote on Tuesday evening.Leaders emphasized that these investments will help protect classrooms, preserve essential positions, and continue supporting students, families, and staff across the district while keeping the focus on student success and long term stability.Speakers thanked the Bridgeport legislative delegation, the Mayor’s Office, City Council members, Governor Ned Lamont, Senate President Martin Looney, Speaker Matt Ritter, and community advocates for standing together and prioritizing public education. The event reflected a united commitment to ensuring Bridgeport students have the opportunities, resources, and support they deserve.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Voice of the District, Bridgeport Public Schools highlights its partnership with Sacred Heart University through the Teacher Residency Program.This conversation focuses on how the district is building a stronger, more sustainable pipeline of educators by connecting preparation directly to the realities of the classroom. Through this collaboration, future teachers gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and the support needed to succeed in Bridgeport schools from day one.Joining the discussion are Dr. René Roselle, who leads teacher preparation and the residency program at Sacred Heart University, and Michael Brosnan, Teacher Coordinator and District TEAM Facilitator for Bridgeport Public Schools. Together, they share insight on the vision behind the partnership, its impact on residents and school communities, and what’s ahead.This episode underscores a simple truth: investing in educators is an investment in students.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we sit down with Lindsay Davis, Director of Early Childhood for Bridgeport Public Schools, to talk about the foundation of student success. Lindsay shares her journey into education, what inspired her to focus on early childhood, and how that work is shaping outcomes across the district.We also take a closer look at Pre-K enrollment, including what families need to know and why starting early makes such a difference. Lindsay highlights the district’s early childhood programs, the opportunities available to our youngest learners, and how we are supporting both students and families from the very beginning.As we head into the summer months, the conversation also covers upcoming summer programs designed to keep students engaged, learning, and connected.This episode is a reminder of the impact of early learning and the importance of strong partnerships with families. Lindsay closes with a message to students and families across Bridgeport, reinforcing our shared commitment to giving every child a strong start.Send us Fan Mail

In Episode 11 of The Voice of the District, we sit down with Edith Boyle, President and CEO of LifeBridge Community Services, and Tia Reid, Senior Director of Behavioral Health Services, for a meaningful conversation on the power of partnership in supporting Bridgeport students and families.Together, they share insight into the vital role LifeBridge plays across our schools—from providing behavioral health services to addressing the growing needs of our community. This episode highlights how embedded supports, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the whole child are making a real impact in the lives of students every day.The discussion also explores the challenges families are facing, the resources available to support them, and the importance of meeting students where they are—both inside and outside the classroom.This conversation is a powerful reminder that when schools and community organizations work together, we can create stronger systems of support and better outcomes for every student.Tune in to hear how this partnership continues to uplift our school community and move Bridgeport Public Schools forward.Send us Fan Mail

In Episode 10 of The Voice of the District, we sit down with Bridgeport Mayor Joseph P. Ganim for a thoughtful and forward-looking conversation centered on the future of our city and our schools. Mayor Ganim reflects on his years in public service and shares insight into the experiences that continue to shape his leadership today.The discussion highlights exciting developments happening across Bridgeport and explores the important role a mayor plays in supporting and strengthening public education. From expanding opportunities for students to building stronger partnerships between state and local leaders, this episode focuses on what it takes to ensure every student has access to the resources they need to succeed.Mayor Ganim also speaks to the importance of community involvement, emphasizing how families, educators, and residents all play a role in moving the district forward. He closes with a direct message to Bridgeport students and families, reinforcing a shared commitment to growth, opportunity, and a stronger future for Bridgeport Public Schools.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Voice of the District, we sit down with Natasha Gravina and Kiara Luna, co-chairs of the Bridgeport Public Schools Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC). As parents and advocates within the district, they share what inspired them to step into leadership and why family voice is so important in shaping special education services.Together, we discuss the role of SEAC and why it is critical for parents and caregivers to have a meaningful seat at the table when decisions are made about their children’s education. Natasha and Kiara also talk about how the council works to strengthen communication between families and the district, build trust, and create a supportive space where parents can share experiences, ask questions, and help guide improvements in special education.The conversation also highlights who should consider joining SEAC, why every family perspective matters, and how parents who may feel unsure about participating can still make an impact. Natasha and Kiara close by sharing their hopes for the future of Bridgeport Public Schools and their message to students and families across the district.Whether you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or community member, this episode offers insight into how collaboration and family partnership help build stronger support systems for all students.Send us Fan Mail

In Episode 08 of The Voice of the District, we are joined by Faith Villegas, Executive Director, and Armando Jimenez, Director of Development, to discuss the impact of Bridgeport Public Education Fund and the Bridgeport Promise program.Since 1983, Bridgeport Public Education Fund has supported local students by mentoring and preparing them for success in college, careers, and life. In this episode, Faith and Armando break down the organization’s mission, the roles they play in advancing that work, and how their programs are helping students build a strong foundation for life after high school.We also explore how the Promise program is opening new doors for students starting as early as middle school, ensuring they have the guidance, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive beyond graduation.This conversation highlights the power of partnership, preparation, and long term investment in Bridgeport students.Send us Fan Mail

Episode 07 of The Voice of the District features Robert Traber, Board of Education Member for Bridgeport Public Schools.In this episode, we discuss what fully funding the Education Cost Sharing formula would mean for Bridgeport students and what funding gaps still remain. Mr. Traber also shares insight on the Governor’s proposed Blue Ribbon Panel, the launch of the Board’s Ad Hoc Advocacy Committee, and why community participation in the upcoming Appropriations Hearing is critical.This conversation highlights the role of advocacy, policy decisions, and community engagement in strengthening Bridgeport Public Schools. We also hear Mr. Traber’s hopes for the future of our district and his message to students and families.DisclaimerBefore we begin, The Voice of the District serves as an open dialogue platform to engage members of the Bridgeport Public Schools community. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Bridgeport Public Schools or the Board of Education.Our goal is to keep our community informed through thoughtful and transparent conversations.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we focus on Connecticut’s short legislative session, a critical period when state lawmakers make key budget and policy decisions that directly affect our city and our public schools. To help break down what this means for Bridgeport, we are joined by Constance Vickers, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Bridgeport. With deep experience in government and public policy, Constance offers clear insight into how decisions made in Hartford translate into real impacts for our students, families, and neighborhoods.Together, we discuss what the short legislative session is, why it matters for Bridgeport, how state budget decisions influence city resources and funding for Bridgeport Public Schools, and which policy areas families should be paying close attention to this year. We also explore what advocacy really looks like by breaking it down into simple, everyday actions and sharing practical ways parents, caregivers, and community members can make their voices heard.This conversation is designed to make the legislative process accessible, relevant, and empowering for Bridgeport families, because informed families are essential partners in advocating for the future of our students.Send us Fan Mail

In Episode 05 of Voice of the District, Interim Superintendent Dr. Royce Avery discusses the district’s proposed budget and the long-standing funding challenges facing Bridgeport Public Schools.Dr. Avery explains that these challenges did not happen overnight and are the result of decades of underfunding that affect urban districts across Connecticut. Rising costs and growing student needs, particularly in special education and multilingual learner services, have continued to outpace available funding.During the episode, he walks through the three budget options presented to the Board, including the status quo budget, his recommended budget to sustain current operations, and a school-based budget built directly from input shared by principals and school leaders. He also highlights the steps the district has taken to manage costs responsibly while maintaining services for students.Dr. Avery closes by emphasizing that continued progress depends on investing in schools, supporting staff, and meeting the real needs of students, and that the budget conversation reflects a shared responsibility to the Bridgeport community.Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of The Voice of the District, we sit down with Dr. Monette Ferguson, Executive Director of Alliance for Community Empowerment (Alliance CT), to discuss the critical role community partnerships play in supporting students and families in Bridgeport.Dr. Ferguson shares how Alliance CT’s work in health, wellness, economic stability, and family resilience is making a direct impact in Bridgeport, highlights key programs serving local families, and explains how parents and caregivers can access essential resources. The conversation also explores what drives her passion for community-centered leadership and her hopes for the future of Bridgeport Public Schools and the families it serves.Send us Fan Mail

In this special episode of The Voice of the District, Bridgeport Public Schools highlights the district’s Debate Program through the voices of two student debaters who share a preview of the upcoming Martin Luther King Jr. Day Debate.Students discuss the importance of debate, critical thinking, and civic engagement, and reflect on how the program helps them develop confidence, leadership, and their voice. They also offer a teaser of the themes and topics that will be explored during the MLK Debate taking place on January 21 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Margaret Morton Center.This episode underscores the district’s commitment to student voice and academic enrichment while celebrating the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. through meaningful dialogue and student-led discourse.Join us as we elevate student voices and invite the community to attend this powerful evening of debate and reflection.Send us Fan Mail

THE VOICE OF THE DISTRICT Episode: Conversation with Board of Education Chair Jennifer PerezBridgeport Public Schools is proud to share a new episode of The Voice of the District, featuring Jennifer Perez, Chair of the Bridgeport Board of Education.In this episode, Chair Perez reflects on her role and responsibilities as Board Chair, the priorities guiding the district as we move into the new year, and the progress Bridgeport Public Schools has made over the past year. She highlights initiatives she is most proud of, discusses the Board’s role in supporting district leadership during a period of growth and transition, and shares her long-term hopes and goals for the future of Bridgeport Public Schools.The conversation also explores the importance of strong partnerships between the Board of Education, district leadership, staff, families, and the broader community, and concludes with a direct message of encouragement and support to Bridgeport students and families.This episode continues our commitment to transparency, collaboration, and keeping our community informed about the leadership, priorities, and vision shaping Bridgeport Public Schools.Send us Fan Mail

In this special health update, Bridgeport Public Schools is joined by the City of Bridgeport Department of Health to share important information regarding a confirmed measles case in a nearby town and what families need to know.Dr. Elizabeth Rivera-Rodriguez and Lizette Earley, Nursing Supervisor for Bridgeport Public Schools, discuss measles prevention, Connecticut’s vaccination requirements, and how families can help keep students and school communities safe. The conversation covers MMR vaccination guidelines, when students should stay home from school, what to do if a child is unvaccinated and may have been exposed, and how school nurses support families during public health situations.This episode is designed to provide clear, accurate guidance and answer common questions as we work together to protect the health and well-being of our students, staff, and families.Send us Fan Mail

Bridgeport Public Schools is proud to share Episode 2 of The Voice of the District, featuring State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, a dedicated advocate for public education and a strong partner to the Bridgeport community.In this episode, Senator Gadkar-Wilcox reflects on her personal and professional journey to public service, sharing the pivotal moments that led her to serve as a State Senator. She speaks candidly about what drives her commitment to education and why advocating for urban school districts like Bridgeport remains central to her work.A key focus of the conversation is Senator Gadkar-Wilcox’s instrumental role in advocating for the $74 million Special Education Center for Bridgeport Public Schools. She discusses why this investment was so important, what it means for students with special needs, and how it will support families for generations to come.The episode also explores:How parents, staff, students, and community members can meaningfully engage in the district’s budget processWhy community voice and collective advocacy are essential to achieving fair and sustainable school fundingEducation initiatives at the state level that have the potential to positively impact Bridgeport studentsHer hopes and long-term vision for the future of Bridgeport Public SchoolsTo close the conversation, Senator Gadkar-Wilcox delivers a direct message of encouragement to Bridgeport students and families, emphasizing resilience, opportunity, and the importance of staying engaged.Senator Gadkar-Wilcox also welcomes all community members, staff, students, and families to reach out to her, underscoring her commitment to listening and ensuring that Bridgeport’s voices are heard at the state level.🎧 Listen to Episode 2 of The Voice of the District and be part of the conversation shaping the future of Bridgeport Public Schools.Send us Fan Mail

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In this episode of The Voice of Bridgeport, we feature a segment from Melissa in the Morning and Jon Kamal discussing Unified Address 2025. Originally aired on WICC, this conversation provides an outside perspective on Bridgeport Public Schools’ first-ever Unified Address and the vision shared by Interim Superintendent Dr. Royce Avery.Send us Fan Mail