Bibb high schools hosting summer bridge programs for rising freshmen

The programs help students learn building layouts, meet staff and understand expectations before the new school year begins.

3 hours ago

Bre'Anna Sheffield,

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Several Bibb County School District high schools are hosting summer bridge programs over the next couple of weeks.

These events help students make the transition from middle to high school by giving them an early opportunity to learn the building layout, routines, and expectations of the high school level.

The summer bridge program helps students build confidence, close academic gaps, and form a support system before the new school year.

Northeast High school instructional coach Aaliyah James says this program helps keep down teen anxiety.

“Our main purpose in this three-day program is to help teens build their confidence, going into high school,” she said. “They get an opportunity to meet the staff here, get to learn the building, and meet new friends. So, it definitely helps their transition be more easy and be more confident as they begin this school year.”

James adds she hopes this program will boost students’ academic confidence.

“Our main focus is to teach them about their credits, what to expect, and lessen their anxiety has they begin this new chapter,” she said.

While high school can be scary, James wants the teens to build relationships beforehand, so they know their teachers and staff are here to help them succeed.

“This is a big transition,” she said. “High school is much different than middle school, so just them getting in the building and learning where their classes are and meeting teachers. So as they begin the school year, they have those people they can go to, that they know will support them, and come not knowing anything, they come with knowing more than the kids that didn’t come.”

There is still time to sign your teen up for the program. The programs are taking place at Central High School and Southwest High School July 14 through 16. Westside will also hold a program on July 16.