On Tuesday, April 21, 2020 the Bridges Preparatory School Board of Directors unanimously approved to extend Head of School, Gary McCulloch’s contract for a 7-year term. With this extension, Mr. McCulloch’s title will also now become Chief Executive Officer.
“I am so excited about what this means for Bridges. I believe Mr. McCulloch's leadership, along with his passion for whole child development, will provide stability and will continue to enhance the culture of our school. The consistency of his presence will also allow for the development of long-term relationships with students, faculty and families which will bring forth continued growth and success for Bridges.” said Board of Director Vice Chair, Rebecca Polk.
Mr. McCulloch began his role as Bridges Preparatory School’s Head of School in July of 2019. In the past year, he has increased attendance numbers, with a record number of applicants (more than 600 applications) for the 2020-2021 school year. He has spearheaded the hiring of additional staff to increase each grade level from 3 to 4 homerooms and plans to implement 4 CTE certification programs for high school students in the upcoming school year.
“It is an honor and privilege to sign a 7-year contract extension with Bridges Preparatory School. I would like to thank our board for this extension of confidence and commitment to a school of excellence. It is truly a pleasure to work with you to provide such a high standard of education. I would like to thank our parents for their continued support and enthusiasm for the amazing school community that we are building. This contract provides you with my commitment to your family and a school environment that will be second to none. I would like to thank our teachers and staff for embracing and committing to a change and learning approach that prioritizes connections and relationships. You are truly amazing to work with and I look forward to building a special learning environment where you truly get to use your creativity to love what you do. Lastly, I would like to thank our students. I miss you, your energy and enthusiasm for learning is contagious. You inspire me to provide you with an environment that is both connected and memorable.” said McCulloch.
Mr. McCulloch has been working closely with the Board of Directors to meet the goals that have been put forth in the school’s charter in regards to academic performance, technology, facilities, teachers and staff, parental and community involvement and fiscal responsibility.
“Mr. McCulloch is a well-respected administrator that has the vision Bridges Preparatory School needs to carry us into the future. Through his innovative outlook on education, along with his multiple partnerships throughout the area, I could not be happier for the Bridges family on his new contract.” stated Board of Directors Chairperson, Tom Angelo.
The school opened a brand new facility in January of this year that will house students in grades 3-12 in the 2020-2021 school year and has recently received funding to build an addition that will bring all of Bridges Preparatory School students in grades kindergarten through high school together within the next year.
“I am thrilled with our growth and the waitlists of families that have chosen Bridges Preparatory School for their families educational career. We will be able to provide a school environment that is second to none in the area. Our new state of the art facilities will afford our students new academic choices that will open the door for their college and career aspirations. We have only begun our journey to excellence. We will overcome this challenging time and come back stronger and more committed to why we are all a part of Bridges Preparatory School...Family.” said Mr. McCulloch.