Family workshops abound in HCPS’ newly reimagined ‘Bridge Builders Academy’ series

Henrico County Public Schools’ family workshops have always been about transformation. Now, the workshop series itself has been transformed to bring Henrico families and educators even more useful presentations, speakers, and events.

The new name better evokes the series’ purpose: to build connections among families, the community, and the school division. The series has also been divided into four “learning strands,” or categories, to make it easier to find relevant information. The learning strands are: Beyond the Classroom; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Exceptional Education; and Information, Access, and Opportunities.

All fall “Bridge Builders Academy” workshops are virtual, and students, staff, and members of the public can participate using Microsoft Teams. Instructions for joining the workshops are at the new Bridge Builders Academy webpage at https://henricoschools.us/bridgebuildersacademy. Workshops are recorded for later viewing, and you can watch past workshops by going to the Bridge Builders Academy page.

Fall 2020 Bridge Builders Academy workshops are below, grouped by category. For more information, go to https://henricoschools.us/bridgebuildersacademy. The fall sessions are moderated by the HCPS Department of Family and Community Engagement, in conjunction with the session hosts. Questions about workshops can be directed to [email protected].

Fall 2020 Bridge Builders Academy workshops, listed by category:

Beyond the Classroom:

• Supporting Student Participation in a Virtual Classroom (Sept. 29 at noon). In the new space of virtual learning, families and caregivers have the new responsibility of supporting students in the virtual classroom. This session will focus on tips and strategies to support your learners, straight from the mouths of educators in the virtual classroom.
• Understanding “New Math” (Oct. 7 at 6 p.m.). A common challenge for most parents is understanding the transition to “new math.” Mathnasium will join us to help families and caregivers understand why the switch was made and how to assist your learner who may need support.
• Building Resilience in Your Learner (Oct. 20 at noon). When you think of resilience what comes to mind? Join nonprofit ChildSavers for a workshop on building resilience in your learner to help them succeed in their learning space and beyond.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:

• Raising a G.U.R.L.L. (Greatness Using Real-Life Lessons) (Oct. 14 at 6 p.m.). “Greatness Using Real-Life Lessons” will focus on Mrs. Scott-Mayo’s journey raising her daughters. The discussion will cover how we can empower our girls, boost their self-esteem, and encourage a positive self-image.
• Exceptional Education:
• “Centering You” with the Center for Family Involvement (Oct. 21 at 6 p.m.). Have you heard of the Center for Family Involvement at VCU’s Partnership for People with Disabilities? This session will provide an overview of the organization’s resources and a bonus self-care session for parents to help them support their virtual learners.
• Virtual IEP Kits (TBD). “IEP Kits” were sent last year to each HCPS school, to help keep families informed about the Individualized Education Program. Explore the digital version, and get access to the information you need about IEPs.

Information, Access, and Opportunities:

• Digital Resources at Your Fingertips (Sept. 30 at 6 p.m.). Are you ready to help your child reach for the stars? Do you want to get a closer look at the digital resources that support your child’s pre-K through grade 5 virtual classroom? If you answered yes to any of these questions, join us for an up-close look at Henrico’s digital resources.
• Save, Spend, Achieve (Oct. 6 at 6 p.m.). This session will discuss setting financial goals and strategies to achieve them.
• Welcome to Henrico from the HCPS Welcome Center (Oct. 13 at noon). Starting in a new school division is a major shift for any family, but especially for families who may need language assistance. Join the HCPS Welcome Center for a session for English-learner families entering Henrico Schools.
• Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (Oct. 27 at noon). Grandparents raising their grandchildren often face unique challenges as they navigate the school experience. Especially this fall, grandfamilies and other relative caregivers must learn new technology, practices, and systems. Join us as nonprofit Formed Families Forward provides tools and resources for grandparents raising their grandchildren.
• Advanced Courses (Oct. 28 at 6 p.m.). Advanced Placement courses, specialty center programs, and honors courses are available across Henrico County for students interested in challenging themselves academically. This session will focus on information to help your learner access these courses in middle and high school.

Fall 2020 Bridge Builders Academy workshops, listed chronologically:

• Save, Spend, Achieve (Oct. 6 at 6 p.m.)
• Understanding “New Math” (Oct. 7 at 6 p.m.)
• Welcome to Henrico from the HCPS Welcome Center (Oct. 13 at noon)
• Raising a G.U.R.L.L. (Greatness Using Real-Life Lessons) (Oct. 14 at 6 p.m.)
• Building Resilience in Your Learner (Oct. 20 at noon)
• “Centering You” with the Center for Family Involvement (Oct. 21 at 6 p.m.)
• Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (Oct. 27 at noon)
• Advanced Courses (Oct. 28 at 6 p.m.)
• Virtual IEP Kits (TBD)