When we were first considering Bridgedale for our son Gunnar, we were a bit hesitant. We were excited about the hockey training, and at the time Gunnar played for the Mission. So it made sense to go to Seven Bridges every day for school and have all of his hockey practices in the same building.
But we were concerned about the academics. Gunnar has a late birthday and Bridgedale did not have a 5th grade class at the time. And that meant that Gunnar had to skip 5th and go directly into Bridgedale's 6th grade.
We thought he would be behind or struggle, but with the help of the teachers and staff, including the after-school study hall, Gunnar didn't miss a beat. Mrs. Di Pauli in particular was so wonderful for Gunnar and had such a huge impact on him. And so he ended up doing extremely well in all of his classes. Bridgedale guided him to the level that he needed to be academically.
We were worried a bit about the maturity level of Gunnar at the time. It was so nice to have peace of mind knowing that he was in a place where he was taken care of not only by the staff, but by the amazing boys that attended Bridgedale. The older boys treated Gunnar like a little brother, teaching him to be a good citizen, teammate and friend. The other boys were an inspiration to Gunnar and definitely positive role models.
I cannot say enough about the staff at Bridgedale. Each and every teacher treated Gunnar as if he was one of their own sons!! They helped him academically, as a hockey player and more importantly taught him how to be a young man.
To this day he mentions Mrs. Statsney and just a few months ago we were watching her son on TV playing for Notre Dame!! So many great memories!!!!
We're so proud that Gunnar recently realized a dream when he signed his tender to play with the Janesville Jets of the North American Hockey League.
Gunnar will always remember his Bridgedale experience and have fond memories of the things he learned there and the people that he met - staff and students.
"This is such a special place!! It is life changing for these boys as it centers around strong relationships that encourage strong academic growth. It’s a hockey school, but so much more than that.
"It’s a pleasure to come to work everyday. Thank you for creating such a positive, caring environment."
Kristi Florey, Bridgedale Math Teacher
Enrollment for the 2020-21 school year at Bridgedale has already begun.