HCPS’ Bridge Builders Academy features virtual and in-person discussions with experts on a host of topics, designed to connect HCPS families with information they 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.
See more family events at the Family and Community Engagement page.
6 p.m. (virtual)
Cyberbullying has created tremendous challenges for students, parents, educators and law enforcement agencies. In this interactive workshop, we’ll discuss the types of cyberbullying, learn the warning signs and explore the motivations of those who engage in it. Attendees will also learn tips and strategies to address cyberbullying when individuals with disabilities are involved.
Presenter: Tina Norris, Parent Education and Training Center
6 p.m. (in person)
The Oak Avenue Complex, 15 S. Oak Ave., Highland Springs, VA 23223
Learn how to help your student succeed at home and at school!
Explore the basics of social and emotional skills like coping with feelings and making decisions.
Hear examples of how to respond to challenging behaviors and big emotions.
Learn what behavioral support is available at schools, including behavior assessments and intervention plans.
This session provides practical strategies for confidently addressing your student’s behavior, and resources to support their learning.
Presenter: Kathleen Gibson, Parent Education and Training Center
5-7pm (in person)
The Oak Avenue Complex, 15 S. Oak Ave., Highland Springs, VA 23223
Is your high school senior considering higher education? Learn how to connect with colleges, get hands-on assistance with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, and the resources they need to set themselves up for success. Don’t miss this chance to help your high school student take the next step toward their dreams!
Presenter: GRASP (Great Aspirations Scholarship Program)
6 p.m. (virtual)
This session will provide general medical education to multilingual-learner families, covering important health topics and available community resources. Get essential information in a clear and accessible way that will help your family better understand how to stay healthy and navigate health care systems. This session will be available in English and Spanish.
Presenter: Sarah Modrak, HCPS education specialist for language instructional programs
Virginia Department of Health
6 p.m. (virtual)
Summer is just around the corner! Explore resources to make your learner's summer enriching and rewarding. Join us for an informative session on the exciting summer opportunities available to Henrico students. We'll cover a range of programs, internships and enrichment activities to help your student make the most of their summer break.
Presenters: Alexis Miller, HCPS Family and Community Engagement ; Justine Jordan, HCPS Extended Learning ; Andrew Crane, Henrico County Recreation and Parks
5:30-7:30 p.m. (in person)
Adult Learning Center at Regency
HCPS’ ExED Expo is the school division’s annual exceptional education resource fair. This free fair focuses on preparing students for life beyond Henrico County Public Schools, including awareness of college and helping students pursue HCPS’ “three E’s”: being enlisted, enrolled and/or employed. Discover the possibilities of success for students with an exceptional education program. Interpreters will be available for Spanish, Arabic, and ASL.
Presenter: HCPS Exceptional Education Transition Team
5-7 p.m. (in person)
The Oak Avenue Complex, 15 S. Oak Ave., Highland Springs, VA 23223
Make this summer your family’s best ever! Families and students are invited to an evening of interactive activities focused on supporting mental wellness during the summer break. Explore fun ways to stay balanced and healthy, with experiences, prizes and giveaways from our community partners — all designed to help make this summer a healthier, happier one!
Presenter: HCPS Student Support and Wellness; HCPS Family and Community Engagement
Beyond the Classroom (BTC)
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.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)
These workshops aim to empower students and families, and foster better practices of diversity, equity and inclusion for our youth, adults and community.
Exceptional Education (ExED)
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
Information, Access and Opportunities (IAO)
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.
