Bridgeport Public Schools Recognized for Academic Growth by State Department of Education

Bridgeport, CT – November 3, 2025 — Bridgeport Public Schools continued focus on student success and academic growth has led to measurable progress across the district. Four Bridgeport schools — Barnum School, Roosevelt School, Madison School, and Warren Harding High School have achieved significant milestones. Barnum, Roosevelt, and Madison Schools successfully exited state identification under the Connecticut State Department of Education accountability system, while Warren Harding High School exited turnaround status following substantial improvement efforts. This recognition reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to instructional excellence, equity, and improvement for all students. 

The Connecticut State Department of Education identified 72 schools statewide for support this year, with 46 receiving comprehensive assistance and 26 receiving targeted support. Bridgeport’s progress represents a significant step forward in the district’s ongoing efforts to strengthen instruction and raise achievement for all students. 

“These results show that real progress is happening in Bridgeport classrooms,” said Dr. Royce Avery, Interim Superintendent of Bridgeport Public Schools. “We are seeing improvement across multiple schools, but there is still more work to do. Our focus remains on sustaining this momentum and ensuring every student has access to the high-quality education they deserve.” 

Bridgeport’s success is rooted in its focus on strengthening Tier 1 instruction. “There is no secret to school turnaround,” said Margaret Hughes, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. “It is a relentless focus on improving Tier 1 instruction. That means implementing a standards based, rigorous curriculum aligned with high quality resources, clear learning targets, and the intentional use of student work to inform instruction. Most critically, it requires differentiation for all students along the learning continuum, ensuring every learner, from those who need support to those ready for enrichment, receives instruction tailored to their needs. Excellence in Tier 1 is the foundation for equity, achievement, and sustainable growth.” 

In addition to the schools exiting state identification, Bassick High School has demonstrated improvement based on its graduation rates. 

Bridgeport Public Schools extends its gratitude to our principals, teachers, support staff, students, and families for their hard work and commitment to continuous growth.