Inside the Work Transforming Special Education in Bridgeport

From Paraprofessional to Principal: Leading Harding High School

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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2561138/fan_mail/new]

Inside the Work Transforming Special Education in Bridgeport

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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2561138/fan_mail/new]

Dunbar School: Progress in Action

The Voice of the District | Featuring Dr. Sarah Jane Henry, Principal of Dunbar School In 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. Disclaimer Before 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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2561138/fan_mail/new]

Press Conference on Education Funding for Bridgeport Public Schools (05/11/2026)

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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2561138/fan_mail/new]

How Is Bridgeport Preparing Tomorrow’s Educators Today?

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 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2561138/fan_mail/new]