We do not adhere to the mainstream education belief that learning is a one-size-fits-all process that happens on a predictable timeline within four walls between the hours of 8 AM to 3 PM. We embrace the belief that all humans are capable learners and that every day, and every experience in life provides us with an opportunity to learn and grow! Here at Bridge Academy, we encourage and support all forms of learning, and turn those real-life experiences into academic credit toward graduation.
At Bridge Academy,
we believe:
Every Child is a Unique and Capable Learner
We know, and believe, that every human is born curious, creative, and capable, and will embrace the knowledge and experiences available to them in their world. The leaders at Bridge Academy have seen firsthand in our decades of experience in the world of education what happens when wide-eyed curious and creative children enter a mainstream school system, and that spark of joy and curiosity slowly leaves their eyes as the pressures of academic performance begin to weigh down on them (*listen to our founder tell a story about this (will link to podcast episode)). At Bridge Academy we support each and every one of our learners (and their families) on their completely unique learning paths. Our students are inventors, writers, entrepreneurs, artists, athletes, visionaries, problem-solvers, thinkers, tinkerers, and world-changers – and by allowing them the freedom to learn what interests and drives them, when and how it does so, we are changing the world for the better one amazing human at a time!
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All Children Deserve Autonomy and Agency on Their Learning Journey
Research is very clear that when we are motivated by passion, interest, or innate need, we are more likely to learn things at a far deeper and more meaningful level than through force and pressure, (which is why all of that content from the tests you took in school all disappeared from your mind as soon as you turned in the work). Child agency and autonomy is at the core of our mission at Bridge Academy. We firmly believe that self-directed learning (with avid support from parents) is not only in a child’s best interest, but is their inherent right as a human being. Because this belief is in such contrast to the way mainstream education operates, we recognize that it may be a hard transition for students, and especially their parents. Bridge Academy offers resources and parent training opportunities to help with making these mindset and lifestyle adjustments.
Um, heck yes! You're reading my mind!
You're a parent, balancing countless responsibilities, feeling the tug of uncertainty as you navigate your child's education .
Traditional schooling, with its rigid structure, seems to miss the mark, leaving your child's unique needs unmet. On the other hand, the free-spirited nature of unschooling feels too chaotic, lacking the structure you crave.
Ever-changing regulations adds to your anxiety, making compliance feel like a maze.
You want nothing more than to do right by your child, but the weight of potential missteps is overwhelming.
Watching other families seemingly manage effortlessly, you can't help but wonder how they do it. You wish for a solution that offers the best of both worlds, providing structure without stifling creativity.
Maybe you've felt like this
Keep reading!
sound impossible?
Access to curriculum, unschooling workshops, and community!
Flexible student status based on their needs
Support with educational regulations in all 50 states
what if you could have:
Bridge Academy understands the delicate balance you seek. Our program offers the structure of a traditional school with the flexibility of homeschooling, while offering you the support to tailor everything to meet your child's unique needs. Our experienced licensed team help you navigate state regulations with ease, ensuring compliance without the stress.
With our transparent tuition, natural learning curriculum, and support, you're never alone on this journey.
At Bridge Academy, we empower you to provide a holistic, personalized education that nurtures your child’s talents and interests while giving you the peace of mind you deserve. Join a community where your challenges are understood, the families needs are met, and your child can truly thrive.
you can choose a new path
BUT GUESS WHAT?
another way
What friend?
But Guess
– Kailee G
“Our days are by no means perfect and we still have things to figure out but the journey is so absolutely wonderful!”
I just wanted to share how incredibly grateful I am for Bridge Academy. I say it often and tell everyone how much I am loving this new lifestyle of ours but truly, Lisa Martin and Leah McDermott [of Bridge Academy], you have changed our lives in the most beautiful and perfect way!
I still pinch myself when I think about how we get to live our lives now. My oldest is so much happier and more himself now that he can choose how his days go and at his own pace!
My youngest is beyond overjoyed to have his best friend home with him again. Our days are by no means perfect and we still have things to figure out but the journey is so absolutely wonderful!
I once thought I would be the one creating what Leah has made but I now struggle with an autoimmune disease that zaps me of my energy- I am SO grateful that someone so likeminded has put in all this leg work to do what Bridge Academy has done!
Leah you are such an inspiration and I can never fully put into words how thankful I am for you and this beautiful endeavor you have taken on! I promise your effort does not go unnoticed!
Thank you for all you do and for giving us this opportunity!!
“happier & more himself”
kind words
Hi, I’m Leah McDermott, M.Ed., the founder and head of school at Bridge Academy. With over 17 years of experience in education, I’ve seen firsthand the limitations of traditional teaching methods. Early in my career, I taught both kindergarten and fifth grade, and I noticed a stark difference: younger children were naturally enthusiastic and curious, while older students often became disengaged due to rigid and uninspiring educational practices.
Driven by a desire to rekindle a love of learning, I decided to homeschool my own children, embracing a natural learning approach. This hands-on, personalized method respects each child's unique learning style and needs, which led me to establish Bridge Academy. My mission is to empower families to embrace natural learning and foster a lifelong love of education in their children. At Bridge Academy, I’m committed to ensuring we remain at the forefront of personalized, child-centered education.
I’m Leah. Master Educator turned UnSchooler Revolutionary
I'm In! SIgn me up!
Are you ready to enroll & join the #bridgeschooler movement?
Bridge Academy is a registered private K-12 school that focuses on personalized learning and holistic development. We offer a flexible and supportive program for natural and inquisitive learners, combining the freedom of homeschooling with the structure of traditional schooling.
we know this right for us!
Supplementary curriculum
Personalized support with navigating your local educational regulations for the benefit of your child
Access to our Parent Portal
UnSchooling & Natural Learning Resources
Official Enrollment Documentation
THIS adventure IS FOR YOU IF YOU WANT TO:
We've designed this program based on what 1000s of families who value child-driven learning need most:
Bridge Academy enrollment includes:
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full school year
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a resource, not a requirement
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developmentally-based
Your Natural Learner curriculum for grades P-K through Middle School is provided as a resource. It's not a requirement, but rather a supplment to whichever other tools, sources, and curriculum you feel is best for your children. You'll get access to the Learning Log so you can document learning happening - no matter who or what is involved.
Will Curriculum Look like?
okay, but what exactly
I'm in! Sign me up!
So what are you waiting for? Sign-up now to join the thousands of families prioritizing child-driven learning.
are you ready?
ENROLL NOW!
Pay monthly throughout the 12-month school year (August to July). No differences, just easier on your wallet so this is accessible to all!
12 month payment plan
33
$
payment plan
Even if mid-year your child requests to give traditional school a go or wants to enroll in another supplementary program, you'll still get access to all the resources and support!
year of support - no matter what!
Pay in full for the 12-month school year (August to July). You'll get access to your parent portal, withdrawal support if needed, and our entire library of curriculum and more.
1 PAYMENT
399
$
BEST VALUE
Ready to Get Started?
Enroll Today
Watched the open house?
Saw other families talk about why their children thrive at Bridge Academy?
Feeling ready to enroll?
Take the next step & become a bridgeschooler!
I'm in! Sign me up!
