Bridge Builders Academy

HCPS’ Bridge Builders Academy features virtual gatherings and discussions with experts on a host of topics, designed to connect you, our families, with information you need. The sessions are categorized in four “learning strands”:

Beyond the Classroom
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Exceptional Education
Information, Access and Opportunities

The series is presented by HCPS’ Department of Family and Community Engagement and the HCPS Family and Educator Resource Center. For more information about the Family and Educator Resource Center, visit the center’s webpage.

How to join a meeting
Bridge Builders Academy programs take place using Microsoft Teams. No registration is required, participation is free and you can take part without creating a Teams account.
- If you are accessing the session from a mobile device, you may be prompted to download the Microsoft Teams app, but you can participate using the “desktop version” of a mobile browser instead.
- If you are participating using a Mac or PC, you can download the Teams app or join using a browser.
For details and more information about how to join workshops and discussions, view instructions for joining a meeting with Microsoft Teams. Only the first 350 virtual attendees will be able to participate and comment during the discussion. The session will also be recorded and posted online for additional viewing.

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Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events scheduled at this time.

Signs of Suicide

Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 6 p.m (VIRTUAL)
Learning Strand: Beyond the Classroom

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Click here for session description

This session is geared toward parents and caregivers of middle and high school students who want to learn more about the “Signs of Suicide” program and how it is delivered in the school setting. Signs of Suicide is a universal, school-based prevention program that teaches students how to identify the symptoms of depression and suicidality in themselves or their friends, and encourages them to seek help using the ACT technique (acknowledge, care and tell).

Presenter:
Mark Brandenburger, HCPS health, P.E. and driver education specialist

Amy Johnson,
Student support and wellness specialist

Click here for session description

Preventing Unhealthy Connections: Sextortion, Online Relationships and Online Dating

Tuesday, Oct. 4 at 6 p.m
Fairfield Area Library
1401 N. Laburnum Ave. Henrico, Va. 23223
Learning Strand: Beyond the Classroom

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“Sextortion” is a form of sexual exploitation that has seen a rapid increase in recent years. What is sextortion? Find out how it happens, what to watch for and tips on talking with youth and parents about this crime. Learn about safe and healthy online relationships, safe online dating tips and how to avoid unhealthy connections.

Presenter:
Shannon Taylor, Henrico County commonwealth’s attorney

Power Advocacy: Enhancing Parent and Family Skills to Improve Student Success

Tuesday Oct. 11 at 6 p.m. (VIRTUAL)
Learning Strand: Information, Access and Opportunities

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Click here for session description

This session is designed to help parents, caretakers and family members strengthen their skills as advocates for their students. Attendees will also learn strategies for building achievement-oriented households for all children, and how to become stronger partners with school personnel.

Presenter:
Joy Lawson Davis, Ed.D.,
award-winning author and expert in diversity and equity in gifted and advanced learner programs

Learning Strand Categories

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Beyond the Classroom

Whether learning happens virtually or in person, conditions outside the class environment affect each student’s ability to thrive. “Beyond the Classroom” workshops give you new ways to support your learner at home and in the community.

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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

These workshops aim to empower students and families, and foster better practices of diversity, equity and inclusion for our youth, adults and community.

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Exceptional Education

Exceptional education services can be challenging to navigate. These sessions help families understand the exceptional education system and find the resources they need to better support their learners

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Information, Access and Opportunities

Discover the wealth of resources available to families in our community. These workshops connect parents, guardians, and educators with important information and services from HCPS experts and organizations in the Richmond region.

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