Bridge Bills
What is a Bridge Bill?
A Bridge Bill refers to legislation designed to help students smoothly transition between different stages of their educational and career paths. While the specifics can vary by state or jurisdiction, one of the most notable examples is Georgia’s BRIDGE Act (Building Resourceful Individuals to Develop Georgia’s Economy), often simply called the “BRIDGE Bill.”
Key Characteristics of a Bridge Bill in Education:
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Career and College Readiness Focus:
Bridge bills generally emphasize helping students identify interests, aptitudes, and possible career pathways early in their academic journey. They encourage the development of individualized graduation plans aligned with students’ long-term goals. -
Early Advisement and Planning:
Under such legislation, schools often provide structured advisement beginning in middle school or early high school. Students work with counselors and educators to chart out a course of study that leads them toward a chosen field, post secondary institution, or vocational training program. -
Curriculum Alignment and Pathway Development:
A bridge bill usually requires that educational standards and curricula be aligned with workforce demands. For example, in Georgia, the BRIDGE Act ensures that career awareness and exploration are integrated into the curriculum. Students select a career pathway by 10th grade, guiding them toward relevant coursework and skill development. -
Involvement of Stakeholders:
Such legislation often fosters collaboration among educators, parents, community leaders, and industry partners. The goal is to ensure that school-based learning is connected to real-world opportunities, internships, apprenticeships, or other forms of experiential learning. -
Continuous Support and Adjustment:
The measures established by a bridge bill are not static. They are meant to be revisited and updated as the student progresses, ensuring that career goals remain relevant and that the student has access to resources—such as counseling, tutoring, or technical training—to stay on track.
Please click the links below to view Creekside's Bridge Bills by class