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Properly educating students who are intellectually gifted and who also have special learning needs is challenging. The curriculum must address their intellectual gifts, or these abilities fail to fully develop. At the same time, learning challenges such as AD/HD or learning disabilities make it difficult for a student to profit from traditional methods of instruction. The answer to the educational challenge faced by these “twice exceptional” students is to develop their intellectual abilities while modifying the teaching approach to circumvent weak areas of functioning.

There are a limited number of schools in the United States that provide a “twice differentiated” education, and one of these is Bridges Academy in Studio City, California. Bridges is a fully accredited, college preparatory school that serves students from grades 5 through 12.  Bridges’ students are identified as gifted or highly gifted and also have one or more learning challenges, such as a learning disability, AD/HD, some type of processing problem, and/or social difficulties.

To fully educate gifted students with special learning needs, Bridges utilizes a strength-based approach that identifies, develops and celebrates students’ gifts while accommodating their weak areas of functioning.  Classes are small enough to provide teachers with the opportunity to make individual accommodations in teaching approach and in how students demonstrate their learning.  A priority is placed on integrating into each class training in social skills, study skills and academic management proficiencies, such as planning and completing assignments.

Bridges’ philosophy is to provide an intellectually challenging course of study without weakening the curriculum. Teachers strive to be mentors who change the lives of their students.  Concentrated efforts are made to develop a strong, supportive learning community that guides students to develop skills that translate into success in later life.

On-going professional education for teachers is a hallmark of the Bridges approach. Teachers participate in workshops to learn cutting-edge techniques in areas such as modifying curriculum to reach different learning styles, developing students’ intellectual abilities, and teaching reading in subject-matter areas.

Bridges’ team approach to differentiated instruction encompasses a wide array of in-house specialists to support student learning such as a school psychologist, educational therapist, professional development director, and college guidance director.  In addition, athletics, music, art, and drama programs enrich the curriculum.

To obtain an application packet, or dates of open houses, contact the Director of Admissions by phone at 818-506-1091, or by email at admissions@bridges.edu.

Bridges Academy is located at 3921 Lauren Canyon Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604.  Phone: 818-506-1091.  Website: www.Bridges.edu.
 

Learn more about the needs of twice-exceptional students. 

Read about the special educational needs of gifted students.

To connect with Dr. Kari Miller
Website: www.MillerEducationalExcellence.com
Email: klmiller555@sbcglobal.net
Phone: (310) 280-9813

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