Classes

Core classes are taught by certified teachers and specialists.  Small classes.  Our average ratio is 1:6.

Curriculum

English language arts, reading, math, science, and social studies is based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).  The instruction is generally traditional but tailored to our student's learning needs.   Students are assessed and placed into the appropriate classes.

Elementary and Middle School Courses

• Reading and English Language Arts

• Math:  On-level, advanced, and intervention classes.

• Science:  Life Science, Physical Science, and Earth & Space Science

• Social Studies:  World Geography, World History, US History, State History

• Art

• PE

• Specials may include robotics & coding, library, chamber music, digital graphic arts, jewelry making, and drawing.

High School Courses

On-level, advanced, intervention, and dual-credit (college) courses are available.

• English:  English I, 2, 3, and 4 includes British Literature, American Literature, World Literature, and Composition,

• Math:  Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Precalculus, & Calculus.  Financial Math, Algebraic Reasoning, and other courses may be available.

• Science:  Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science. Other courses may be available.

• Social Studies: World Geography, World History, US History, & Government/Economics

• Spanish 1, 2, 3, 4; American Sign Language 1, 2 (3 & 4 through dual credit)

• Art

• PE

• Electives may include Robotics, Psychology, Street Law, College & Career Readiness, Chamber Music, Digital Graphic Arts, and other courses based on student interest.

• Dual-credit college credit:  Courses in all core subjects and certificate programs available through our partnership with Austin Community College. 

• AP tests:  Students may take AP tests.

Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, & Dyscalculia

Dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia services are provided, if needed.  Our specialists are trained in Orton-Gillingham, Lindamood-Bell Seeing Stars and LiPS programs, Wilson Reading, Take Flight, Neuhaus Basic Language Skills, and other programs.  

Gifted/Talented Education (Quest/Pace)

Students who are gifted & talented receive specialized instruction with their gifted & talented peers.  About half of the students at Bridges Academy Austin are gifted and talented.  Instruction includes project-based learning, individual projects, and advancement in one or more subjects.  We also have many students who are twice exceptional (2e), who are gifted/talented and have dyslexia, dysgraphia, or anxiety.   Compacted courses are available.  Dual credit college courses are available for high school students who have passed the TSI test.

Homework

Homework is kept to a minimum.  We instruct the students at school, but we will offer homework upon request.

Outcomes & State Testing

• Students average two years of growth per year in reading.

• Our students do not need to take the STAAR test because we are a private school.  Instead, we assess skills using individually-administered assessments.

• About half of the students end up with scores on the 99th percentile when they graduate from our school.  Some started as low as the first percentile when they originally enrolled, such as some of our gifted/twice exceptional students with dyslexia who entered unable to read.  With the right type of instruction, they reach their potential and excel.  Others may be students who would be fine in a public school, but who excel in with our small classes and instruction designed to move students forward. 

• In the words of one of our 7th graders, "We learn twice as much but without the stress."

Grades

Students are graded on their mastery of skills, and report cards for K-8 show which skills have been mastered.  We have detailed assessments to determine which skills have been mastered and which skills need improvement.  Students receive letter grades in middle school and high school courses.  We meet with parents regularly to review progress and goals.

Specialists

We have options for you to enroll separately in speech therapy, occupational therapy, and possibly other therapies onsite through outside providers.  

Bridges Academy Austin is a accredited by Cognia (NCA CASI, NWAC and SACS CASI).