Bridges is the only middle school in Oregon specifically designed for students with learning differences to reach their maximum potential-in a loving, nurturing atmosphere centrally located in downtown Portland.
Our small settings for 5th-8th graders incorporate individualized academics with social skills, therapies, and support that set the foundation for future success. For many Bridges students, this means the difference between effective learning and being passed along.
It means positive social and emotional growth rather than isolation or, worse, bullying. In our small classes, nothing is left to chance.
Students are not expected to `pick up` material. Instead, they are taught how to learn using effective individualized instruction in reading, writing, science, social studies, and mathematics.
They learn self-advocacy and social skills. Most of all, they are safe, and supported, and able to grow. At Bridges, students learn another way forward.
Our goal is to give students with learning differences the academic foundation, social skills and confidence they need to graduate ready to succeed in high school and in the community.
Quick Stats (2024)
- Top Ranked OR School
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: 5-8
- Enrollment: 64 students
- Yearly Tuition: $26,750
- Acceptance rate: 50%
- Average class size: 12 students
- Application Deadline: Feb. 1 / rolling
- Source: Verified school update
Top Rankings
Bridges Middle School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Oregon for:
Category
Attribute
Acceptance Rate
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 5-8
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Distractability, impulsivity, hyperactivity, sensory processing, social/emotional support, dysgraphia, dyscalcula, ASD, Anxiety, low self-esteem, dyslexia,
Year Founded
1998
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
64 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
11%
State avg.: 25%
Students by Grade
Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
7 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
9:1
National avg.: 13:1
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
80%
Average Class Size
12 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
Feb. 1 / rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
$26,750
Tuition Notes
Payment plans and Financial Aid are available.
% on Financial Aid
35%
Average Financial Aid Grant
$13,000
Acceptance Rate
50%
National avg.: 85%
Admissions Director
Beven Byrnes
Admissions Associate
Karen Pane
School Notes
- Individualized learning and attention.Bridges Middle School does more than prepare our students for high school. We transform lives. Students with learning differences experience academic success and personal growth. They learn to navigate school - and life - with confidence and competence. Students leave Bridges with self-awareness and the tools to accomplish their goals despite their learning differences.
- Small Classes. Big Results.In our small classes, Bridges` students flourish in a community of supportive teachers and peers. We strive to maintain a student-teacher ratio of twelve to one and often even lower, compared with other public and private settings where class sizes often average 30 or more. This unique context allows individualized assistance, the development of a deep understanding of our students` needs, and the ability to tailor lessons to build on the strengths and creative interests of each child.
- Parents say Bridges is quite literally a lifesaver.We offer a range of social and emotional support to our students and their families. Our team of teachers, counselors and administrators bring a wide range of expertise from diverse backgrounds. They help students understand the complex nuances of middle school culture, provide responsive services for challenges that arise within the school community, and assist individual students by providing support and coaching at different stages of need.
- Bridges builds confidence.Every student has something they`re good at, whether it`s art, writing, sports, or being a good friend to others. Our teachers help students recognize and appreciate their strengths. Therefore, they will build self-confidence and self-esteem.
- Bridges creates routines and structure.Students with learning differences often experience severe disorganization. Often, they need ways to structure both time and space. Bridges creates clear routines and schedules for what needs to be done when, and set up easy-to-use binders and work spaces to promote clarity and organization.
- Bridges empowers students to make choices about their learning.Because students with learning differences find school difficult, students may have a hard time making decisions about what they want to do. Bridges puts the power in their hands by encouraging them to do things they love and that make them feel empowered-such as cooking, building something, or making their own movie.
- Bridges partners with parents and expert providers.Bridges` counselors and teachers work in collaboration with family providers in the fields of education, behavior, and mental health. We work in partnership with parents and providers to best support our students to thrive in school-and in life-becoming their best selves.
- Bridgesprovidesacademic and social support.An important component to ensuring the success of each student at Bridges Middle School is to have faculty who fully understand the developmental characteristics and unique learning needs of middle-school students. Bridges is fortunate to have a professional, creative, knowledgeable and caring staff.The teachingand counselingteam at Bridges Middle School meets each student where he or she is academically and socially. In small classes, Bridges` students do more than learn to cope with their learning differences. They gain the academic, social and self-advocacy skills necessary to succeed in school and at home.
Source: Verified school update
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Bridges Middle School cost?
Bridges Middle School's tuition is approximately $26,750 for private students.
What is the acceptance rate of Bridges Middle School?
The acceptance rate of Bridges Middle School is 50%, which is lower than the national average of 89%. Bridges Middle School's acceptance rate is ranked among the top private schools in Oregon with low acceptance rates.
What is Bridges Middle School's ranking?
Bridges Middle School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Oregon for: Lowest average acceptance rates.
When is the application deadline for Bridges Middle School?
The application deadline for Bridges Middle School is Feb. 1 / rolling (applications are due on Feb. 1 but additional applications are reviewed year-round as space permits ).
In what neighborhood is Bridges Middle School located?
Bridges Middle School is located in the Southwest Portland neighborhood of Portland, OR. There are 26 other private schools located in Southwest Portland.
Related Schools
Show me:
People that viewed Bridges Middle School also viewed these schools: Park Academy, Serendipity Center, Catlin Gabel School, Yourth Progress Learning Center and Portland Christian Jr./Sr. High School.
The nearest high school to Bridges Middle School is Oregon Outreach (2.2 miles away)
The nearest elementary school is St. Andrew Nativity School (1.3 miles away)
The nearest preschool is Holy Redeemer Catholic School (2.1 miles away)
Show me:
Show me:
School
Location
Miles
Grades
Students
Grades: 3-12 | 95 students 13.4 miles 1915 South Shore Blvd
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
(503) 594-8777
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
(503) 594-8777
13.4
3-12
95
Serendipity Center
Special Education School
Grades: 1-12 | 90 students 5.4 miles 14815 Se Division St.
Portland, OR 97236
(503) 761-7139
Portland, OR 97236
(503) 761-7139
5.4
1-12
90
Grades: NS-12 | 779 students 8.3 miles 8825 SW Barnes Road
Portland, OR 97225
(503) 297-1894
Portland, OR 97225
(503) 297-1894
8.3
NS-12
779
Yourth Progress Learning Center
All-boys | Alternative School
Grades: 7-12 | 22 students 7 miles 2020 SE Powell Blvd
Portland, OR 97202
(503) 233-6121
Portland, OR 97202
(503) 233-6121
7
7-12
22
Grades: 6-12 | 306 students 7.4 miles 12425 NE San Rafael Street
Portland, OR 97230
(503) 867-9214
Portland, OR 97230
(503) 867-9214
7.4
6-12
306
School Reviews
Endorse Bridges Middle School. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles
Montessori Schools
Montessori schools are popular world-wide with parents of children in the primary grades.
How To Find A Summer Program
Sending your children to a summer program or camp keeps them active in fun-filled settings. We explore your options.
Leadership, Legacy, and Learning: Pillars of Top Schools
We explore the key elements contributing to the success of leading private schools, highlighting the importance of strong leadership, a rich legacy, and a focus on comprehensive learning experiences.
