The Gates & Bridges parent community is a tight-knit and fun group of families. In support of our amazing staff, parents at Gates and Bridges fill a variety of roles that keep the Big Blue House humming five days a week. We are involved in the governance and maintenance of the school and its resources, participating in frequent field trips and program activities, and fundraising for projects and programs.

In the mornings we hold the gate for one another and catch up on the day’s news and ideas. In the afternoons we admire everyone’s artwork and help to find that last lost sneaker. We provide a daily afternoon snack on a rotating basis (the kids love to tell us when “it’s my snack day!”)  Every month we hold a community board meeting via video conference in the evening. Parents are expected to hold a board seat or to participate on a committee at least once during the years that their child is enrolled.

The teachers create themes during each month and appreciate having parents bring in skills, interests, cultural celebrations, etc. to enrich our program. If you have a hobby that would be of interest or want to do a presentation on your occupation we welcome your involvement. We are interested in developing multi-cultural and philanthropic awareness’s and parents have often facilitated special projects towards those ends.

We hold several fundraising events throughout the year to boost funds and community involvement; the Winter Raffle in December, the Book Fair in February, and the Fog Fest (Online auction / Raffle / Children’s Carnival) towards the end of the school year.  In addition, we get together for a potluck holiday party in December and an end of school picnic in July. We welcome new parents with gatherings prior to starting in early August in addition to an evening orientation meeting soon after the school year begins.