Bridgeport Public Schools Recognized By State For Academic Growth

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Four Bridgeport public schools have been recognized for academic improvement, marking a step forward in the district’s efforts to raise student achievement, district officials said.

Barnum, Roosevelt and Madison schools have exited state identification under the Connecticut State Department of Education’s accountability system, while Warren Harding High School has exited turnaround status after several years of improvement efforts.

The state education department identified 72 schools statewide for additional support this year, including 46 receiving comprehensive assistance and 26 receiving targeted support. Bridgeport officials said the district’s progress reflects a broader focus on instructional quality and student success.

"These results show that real progress is happening in Bridgeport classrooms," said Dr. Royce Avery, Interim Superintendent of Bridgeport Public Schools, in a statement. "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."

Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Margaret Hughes said the district’s gains stem from strengthening "Tier 1" instruction — core classroom teaching for all students.

"There is no secret to school turnaround," Hughes said. "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 four schools’ recognitions, Bassick High School showed improvement in its graduation rates, according to the district.

District officials credited principals, teachers, staff, students and families for contributing to the progress.