Dear Parents,

 

Tomorrow will be our 15^th Science Day.  We have not made it through one January at Bridge Point without a Science Day.  Starting as a bunch of arm-twisted teachers and some willing parents in the fall of 1997, the first Science Day committee organized the event that our students will experience tomorrow.  Over the years Science Day has morphed from teacher-led sessions to the current expo which includes experts, scientists, enthusiasts, teachers and MS, HS and college students.  All will demonstrate interesting and exciting applications of Science.  The day is many parts demonstration, hands-on and participation for the students while also acting as an idea incubator for careers.  Organizing this complex day requires intensive effort by a huge committee of committed parents.  With the help of the HUB and the constant analysis of process by some smart committee members, the organization of Science Day, including the coordination of info, places and people, has evolved into its own exquisite result.

 

When I speak to former Bridge Pointers, there isn’t one who does not note Science Day (and, of course, May Madness!) as a defining memory.  Fun, excitement, engagement and wonder usually have that affect on us.  Not one of those students has related TAKS preparation or a routine instructional day as a defining Bridge Point highlight…go figure.  Many of those Bridge Pointers are now adults, shoulder-to-shoulder with us, contributing in their own way.

 

One is Addie Edwards, now a kindergarten teacher in AISD.  I am proud of her.  Addie was in our first Third Grade group in 1997 and spent three years at Bridge Point.  Her current school is seeking an alternative to the traditional Science Fair model that requires (you remember) an at-home experiment, story board display, absolute rules and presentation skills that reward stress management, graphic presentation and…the winner!  Most students, parents and teachers generally groan during Science Fair season.  There has to be a better way to create a meaningful Science experience for their students.  And for her school, enter the talented, committed and fresh Addie.

 

Addie is bringing her principal and colleagues to take a look at our Science Day.  They will observe to see if it is for them.  They will see an event that has matured each year; adding, subtracting and refining to make all elements of it better.  If Addie is involved, I am sure they will ask the right questions and learn from our experience. I know Addie wants a learning event that is memorable and meaningful for her students.

 

I hope you find a way to tap into your child’s excitement about the Bridge Point Science Day.  We will most definitely be abuzz on campus tomorrow.  Over 200 of you will have contributed with time, talents and effort to make it happen.  If you can, check it out for yourself.  At the very least, make sure you and your child review the day together.  I am certain you will find a seed planted as a result of the Bridge Point Science Day…just like it was for Addie Edwards back in an earlier millennium.

 

Sincerely,

 

M. Bradford Wirht
Principal