Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

In this section you will find some of our most frequently asked questions about Bridges Preparatory School. If you have read this section and still have questions about Bridges, we can be reached by phone at (843) 982-7737 or email at communications@bridgespreparatoryschool.org

What is a Charter School and how is it different than traditional public school?

A charter school is a public school with specific goals and operating procedures detailed in an agreement, or charter.  Charter schools receive state funding and are not private schools. They are tuition-free, non-sectarian and open to any student, regardless of his or her place of residence. Students must apply to charter schools, unlike public schools where students attend the school they are zoned to attend.

Tell me a little bit about Bridges Preparatory School.

The Bridges Preparatory School mission is to provide students equal access to a high-quality K-12, whole-child education that maximizes academic excellence and strength of character in a student-centered learning environment, created by a faculty of lifelong learners. Bridges Preparatory School was chartered in 2013. In addition to our focus on Paideia, or whole-child learning, Bridges also follows a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) curriculum from kindergarten all the way through 12th grade.

How many students attend Bridges Preparatory School and how many students are there in each classroom?

Bridges Preparatory School’s current enrollment is 795 students and will grow to approximately 1,100 students in August 2020. Beginning in the 2020-2021 school year, Bridges Preparatory School will have four classrooms per grade level. Each classroom is limited to a maximum of 23 students, with the exception of our Advanced Placement classrooms. To find out more, visit our website at www.bridgesprep.org.

How do I enroll my child?

Bridges Preparatory School holds a lottery every year to fill any open seats within our school. Students may apply from December 15th through the end of January. A lottery is then held every February to fill all available seats. Students who are not offered seats will go on a wait list in case further seats become available throughout the year. To apply to be on our waitlist please visit www.bridgesprep.org/admissions.

What sports are offered at Bridges Preparatory School?

Students in grades 7-12 may participate in volleyball, cross country, golf, basketball, baseball, soccer, and softball. There are also various clubs offered such as the fishing club and chess club.

Why choose Bridges?

  • Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) focus
  • Guaranteed class size of 23 students
  • 1:1 Technology
  • Honors Class and Gifted and Talented Programs
  • No tuition
  • Paideia-based, whole-child education develops a child’s intellectual, social and emotional well-being through personalized education
  • Bridges Preparatory School curriculum is research-based and is supported by significant hands-on project-based learning
  • Rated one of South Carolina’s top charter schools
  • Bridges Preparatory is a school where students, staff and families are truly valued
     

What are the start and end times for the 2022-23 school year?

For students in Grades K-5, school begins at 7:30 AM and ends at 2:30 PM. Students can be dropped off beginning at 7:00 AM.
For students in Grades 6-12, school begins at 8:00 AM and ends at 3:00 PM.