The Voice of the District

Bridgeport Public Schools
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Education

The Voice of Bridgeport is the official podcast of Bridgeport Public Schools, created to keep our community informed, engaged, and connected. Each episode features conversations with district leaders, educators, students, families, and community partners as we explore the progress, challenges, and initiatives shaping our schools. Through transparent dialogue and real stories from across the district, this podcast offers listeners an inside look at the work happening every day to support our students’ success. Whether we’re discussing academics, operations, student voice, facilities, partnerships, or board governance, The Voice of Bridgeport brings forward timely information and meaningful perspectives to keep our community updated. Tune in every Friday to stay informed and inspired as we continue moving Bridgeport Public Schools forward, together.

  1. Inside the Work Transforming Special Education in Bridgeport

    6d ago

    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

    39 min
  2. Dunbar School: Progress in Action

    May 15

    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

    13 min
  3. Press Conference on Education Funding for Bridgeport Public Schools (05/11/2026)

    May 11

    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

    31 min
  4. How Is Bridgeport Preparing Tomorrow’s Educators Today?

    Apr 29

    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

    23 min
  5. The Voice of the District | Episode 12 w. Early Childhood Department

    Apr 16

    The Voice of the District | Episode 12 w. Early Childhood Department

    In this episode, we sit down with Lindsay Davis, Director of Early Childhood for Bridgeport Public Schools, to talk about the foundation of student success. Lindsay shares her journey into education, what inspired her to focus on early childhood, and how that work is shaping outcomes across the district. We also take a closer look at Pre-K enrollment, including what families need to know and why starting early makes such a difference. Lindsay highlights the district’s early childhood programs, the opportunities available to our youngest learners, and how we are supporting both students and families from the very beginning. As we head into the summer months, the conversation also covers upcoming summer programs designed to keep students engaged, learning, and connected. This episode is a reminder of the impact of early learning and the importance of strong partnerships with families. Lindsay closes with a message to students and families across Bridgeport, reinforcing our shared commitment to giving every child a strong start. Send us Fan Mail

    14 min
  6. The Voice of the District | Episode 11 w. Lifebridge

    Mar 26

    The Voice of the District | Episode 11 w. Lifebridge

    In Episode 11 of The Voice of the District, we sit down with Edith Boyle, President and CEO of LifeBridge Community Services, and Tia Reid, Senior Director of Behavioral Health Services, for a meaningful conversation on the power of partnership in supporting Bridgeport students and families. Together, they share insight into the vital role LifeBridge plays across our schools—from providing behavioral health services to addressing the growing needs of our community. This episode highlights how embedded supports, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the whole child are making a real impact in the lives of students every day. The discussion also explores the challenges families are facing, the resources available to support them, and the importance of meeting students where they are—both inside and outside the classroom. This conversation is a powerful reminder that when schools and community organizations work together, we can create stronger systems of support and better outcomes for every student. Tune in to hear how this partnership continues to uplift our school community and move Bridgeport Public Schools forward. Send us Fan Mail

    19 min
  7. The Voice of the District | Episode 10 with Mayor Joseph P. Ganim

    Mar 20

    The Voice of the District | Episode 10 with Mayor Joseph P. Ganim

    In Episode 10 of The Voice of the District, we sit down with Bridgeport Mayor Joseph P. Ganim for a thoughtful and forward-looking conversation centered on the future of our city and our schools. Mayor Ganim reflects on his years in public service and shares insight into the experiences that continue to shape his leadership today. The discussion highlights exciting developments happening across Bridgeport and explores the important role a mayor plays in supporting and strengthening public education. From expanding opportunities for students to building stronger partnerships between state and local leaders, this episode focuses on what it takes to ensure every student has access to the resources they need to succeed. Mayor Ganim also speaks to the importance of community involvement, emphasizing how families, educators, and residents all play a role in moving the district forward. He closes with a direct message to Bridgeport students and families, reinforcing a shared commitment to growth, opportunity, and a stronger future for Bridgeport Public Schools. Send us Fan Mail

    25 min
  8. The Voice of the District | Episode 09 w. Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC)

    Mar 10

    The Voice of the District | Episode 09 w. Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC)

    In this episode of The Voice of the District, we sit down with Natasha Gravina and Kiara Luna, co-chairs of the Bridgeport Public Schools Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC). As parents and advocates within the district, they share what inspired them to step into leadership and why family voice is so important in shaping special education services. Together, we discuss the role of SEAC and why it is critical for parents and caregivers to have a meaningful seat at the table when decisions are made about their children’s education. Natasha and Kiara also talk about how the council works to strengthen communication between families and the district, build trust, and create a supportive space where parents can share experiences, ask questions, and help guide improvements in special education. The conversation also highlights who should consider joining SEAC, why every family perspective matters, and how parents who may feel unsure about participating can still make an impact. Natasha and Kiara close by sharing their hopes for the future of Bridgeport Public Schools and their message to students and families across the district. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or community member, this episode offers insight into how collaboration and family partnership help build stronger support systems for all students. Send us Fan Mail

    21 min
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About

The Voice of Bridgeport is the official podcast of Bridgeport Public Schools, created to keep our community informed, engaged, and connected. Each episode features conversations with district leaders, educators, students, families, and community partners as we explore the progress, challenges, and initiatives shaping our schools. Through transparent dialogue and real stories from across the district, this podcast offers listeners an inside look at the work happening every day to support our students’ success. Whether we’re discussing academics, operations, student voice, facilities, partnerships, or board governance, The Voice of Bridgeport brings forward timely information and meaningful perspectives to keep our community updated. Tune in every Friday to stay informed and inspired as we continue moving Bridgeport Public Schools forward, together.

Information

  • Creator
    Bridgeport Public Schools
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Voice of the District
  • Show Website
    The Voice of the District