Summer Bridge Program

No. The summer bridge program is an invitation-only opportunity. This specific program is designed for a select group of students to help them build a strong foundation and enter freshman year with confidence and purpose.
 

Student eligibility is determined by a holistic review of their academic profile.

Selection is based on meeting two or more criteria:

• HSPT Placement and Standardized Test Scores: We identified profiles that indicated a strong potential for growth and would benefit from a targeted, and strategic focus that will support success in our college-prep environment.
• Academic Readiness: An evaluation of previous coursework and grades to identify areas where additional support can strengthen readiness for Brebeuf’s rigorous curriculum.

No. The Summer Bridge Program is an opportunity designed for students who want to enter 9th grade with confidence and a sense of community. While we do strengthen core math and English skills, the focus is on making the transition to high school and building leadership habits. It is about getting a feel for the campus and culture of Brebeuf.  
 

The transition from 8th to 9th grade can be a major shift. Students in the Summer Bridge Program will be able to walk in on day one of school already knowing the building, faculty, and—most importantly—a group of friends. They gain a "soft landing" that reduces anxiety and sets them up for a joyful, successful freshman year.

No. The program is being funded through a generous grant from Lilly Endowment that allows us to offer this program at no cost to participants.

The Summer Bridge Program is led by Erika Blakey, Assistant Principal and Summer Bridge Director. Students willl be supported by a dedicated team of educators and mentors committed to cura personalis, care for the whole person

Brebeuf Jesuit teachers who focus on refreshing and strengthening foundational skills in core subjects like English and math. In addition, students will interact with teachers who will mentor and guide students through collaborative team building and service-oriented activities. Students will interact with counselors who will focus on essential high school organization and college readiness skills. Students will also interact with educators who will lead them through Ignatian formation by helping them to apply the cycle of context, reflection, experience, action and evaluation to their daily lives.

While the program is designed as a cumulative experience where friendships and skills build over time, we understand that summer is a busy season for families. Please indicate your child’s availability on your response form so our team can plan accordingly.

Summer Bridge is optional, but it is highly encouraged. It is a dedicated time during the year when students can develop new connections with teachers and peers, explore our Jesuit mission, engage in a community service project, and build study habits and participate in early conversations and experiences with college preparation. 
 

No. We believe summer should be a time for growth without the grind. All activities, reflections, and projects are completed during program hours so that students can enjoy their evenings with their families.

No grade or credit will be earned during this program. 
 

Students should wear comfortable clothing suitable for an active school day. We want students to feel distinct and professional, so we suggest comfortable sneakers for team-building and service activities. 
 

In the Jesuit tradition, we focus on cura personalis, or "care for the whole person."

For our students, this means short, daily moments of quiet reflection, learning to advocate for their own needs, and discovering their unique gifts through service to others.

Every student in the program will participate in a collaborative project that benefits our local community. Instead of just sitting in a classroom, students will have an opportunity to get out into the community to lead. By working together on a service project, they don’t just learn about our values—they live them. It’s where the best memories and the strongest friendships are made.
 

Yes. Students can participate in Summer School Session 1 in June, as well as participate in the afternoon classes offered in July during Summer School Session 2.