 For the past few weeks, we have been highlighting various aspects of what to expect at this year's Stanbridge Spring Gala—Saturday, March 9th at Domenico Winery. Still, the phrase "fundraising gala dinner" might have negative connotations for some people, so allow us to highlight a few things that this year's Stanbridge Spring Gala is not: • There will not be a rubber chicken dinner. Ugh. We've all been there. A perfectly good celebration ruined by a bland slab of flavorless meat or congealed pasta. Nothing worse than spending the dinner hour pushing peas around your plate and counting down the minutes until you can hit the In-N-Out drive thru on the way home. Which is why we're offering a full complement of delicious appetizers and entrees at this year's gala. From seafood and salads, to carved meats, eggplant parmesan, and the mashed potato bar, come hungry and leave happy!  • There will not be an endless silent auction. The Stanbridge gala is a chance to socialize and party with other attendees, not stare at tables of gift baskets and bid sheets all night long. While we will still have some great prizes that you can purchase tickets to win throughout the night—a Hawaiian timeshare; Giants box seats; a Wine Club membership; a LEGO/Maker's Faire package—we don't want guests to anxiously hover over auction items from the time you arrive. We want you to mix, mingle, have fun and dance! And speaking of dancing...  • It will not be amateur hour on the bandstand. We won't be piping-in muzak, clumsily shuffling through someone's iPod playlist, or hosting a ragtag rent-a-band that only covers 80's Billy Joel. For this year's gala—by popular demand—we're bringing back jazz vocalist Jesse Foster and his personally-selected group of ensemble musicians who have decades of combined experience playing with Grammy-winning headliners all over the world. They'll be bringing da noise and da funk, as well as da jazz, soul, pop, R&B, and groove, so bring your best moves and boogie shoes—the dance floor will be open all night.  • There will not be a long-winded boring speaker. Between band sets, our resident high school science teacher/improv comic Jay Huston will be the evening's emcee to keep things flowing and the energy up. For our post-dinner program centerpiece, we're excited to have counselor James Warren once again performing an original song, and we are especially thrilled to announce that this year's gala will feature the world premiere of our new Stanbridge video, shot on campus earlier this fall. While the fundraising portion of the evening is a critical means to support all of our Stanbridge students, the last thing we want is for someone to drone on endlessly as you slip into a food coma, so we'll keep things fun, lively, and brief so you can raise your paddles and then get back to raising the roof.  • The gala is not a SPA meeting. It's a party! Domenico's newly-renovated tasting room is even more spacious than last year (construction is done!), and we'll be hosting an open bar all night with their award-winning wines, a selection of beers, and top-shelf mixed drinks, too (not to mention soft drinks, coffee, and tea). Along with the food, drinks, and music, the evening will feature current and alumni Stanbridge parents, staff, trustees, outside donors and friends. We've designed the gala to be a fun, adults night out to socialize with the extended Stanbridge community, but also a perfect opportunity to invite your friends and neighbors to a one-of-a-kind event that celebrates the school that means so much to us. • It's not a party without you! Now that you have a better sense of what the gala is and what the gala is not, we hope you'll see for yourself and join us at the party on Saturday March 9th. Our RSVP deadline is this Friday, February 15, so time is running out to secure your seats. You can purchase tickets or make a donation online using your credit/debit card, or pay by cash or check in the main office. If you plan to attend but can't pay until later, simply complete the RSVP form on our gala webpage or complete the form in the office by Friday (payment in-full is due by March 9). If you have any gala questions, please don't hesitate to contact our Director of Advancement, Chris Myers, via email at [email protected].
In the meantime, thanks to everyone who has already purchased their ticket/tickets or made a pre-event donation. This is shaping-up to be our biggest gala ever—hope to see you there! We are excited to debut a new recurring blog series "On My Mind," which will feature student-written posts by two interns from the Stanbridge High School Bridges class, Seniors Alix and Grace. As part of their in-house marketing internship, Alix and Grace will write about things that are on the minds of Stanbridge students and post them on our website's blog. Be sure to check back regularly for new posts!  My name is Alix and I am a Senior at Stanbridge Academy. I have been attending Stanbridge for seven years now, and I will graduate this June. I am very happy to help write the Student Blog before I leave Stanbridge, because one of my passions is creative writing. I like to write stories, but writing a blog is a new experience for me. Other interests that I have are baking and fashion. I might want to go into fashion after I graduate. For my first blog post, I want to address that this Friday, February 8, is the High School Valentine’s Dance. The High School Dances can be a great opportunity for high school students to get together outside of school hours. However, at the dances, it’s important to use our social skills that we learn in our Social Learning classes at Stanbridge. For example, if you want to dance with someone, you should ask them politely. If they decline your offer, then you should be respectful of their choice, try to act as if it’s no big deal, and go talk to or dance with someone else. You should not insist on dancing, have a meltdown, or invade their personal space when they have asked for some space.
Hi, I’m Grace, a current student at Stanbridge Academy. I am in my Senior year and will graduate this year with the other Seniors. Currently, I live with my parents in the Bay Area. I like to volunteer in different areas such as helping with kids and adults. During my free time, I like writing and listening to music. Speaking of music, we have two more dances coming up this year: Valentine’s in early February and Prom in mid-May. Following are some expectations at dances:
 Our Bulldogs Basketball team is back in action and there are plenty of opportunities to catch a game this month. This Wednesday afternoon, the team will face off against Sterne Middle School at High-Five Sports Zone in San Francisco—tip time is 4:30 p.m. Next week, on Monday, Feb. 11, the squad travels to the Sports House in Redwood City for a 2:30 p.m. game against Holden High School; and on Monday, Feb. 25, the Bulldogs will be back there for another 2:30 afternoon game against STAR Academy. Can't make the games on weekdays? No problem! Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 2, and catch the Bulldogs in prime time playing a 7:00 p.m. evening game at Marin School. Additional details, along with upcoming games for our other athletic teams, can be found on our P.E. & Athletics page. The weather may be cold, but the action is hot on the court—come out and support our Stanbridge Stars. Go Dawgs!
 Funds from this year's annual Spring Gala will support the students and programs here at Stanbridge, but we'll be giving away some great prizes at this year's fundraising event as well. Donation drawing tickets will be on sale throughout the night for a chance to win an amazing collection of LEGO sets and Maker wares (for young ones), as well as an amazing collection of fine wines as part of a yearlong Wine Club membership to our host venue, Domenico Winery (for older ones). Plus, family members of all ages will enjoy a multi-night stay at a luxurious condo in Kauai. Those prizes are just a few highlights of what you could take home at this year's Stanbridge Spring Gala, March 9th from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. at Domenico Winery. Of course, there are plenty of other reasons to join us at the party—including an incredible line up of jazz musicians, and a delectable menu of drinks, appetizers, dinner, and dessert. It's a great night to support a great cause! Tickets are on sale now in the main office, or click here to purchase tickets/donate online with your credit or debit card. We hope to see you there!
 A new episode of Stanbridge Student News has been posted to our website's Parent Portal—Stanbridge families can access by using their portal password. The latest episode opens with an exclusive look at the Stanbridge Snack Shack, a new student government initiative that promises to give students more variety at lunch time. Also, our student news team presents a new FYI segment investigating the problem of plastic pollution; discover the environmental impact this waste is causing, and learn tips on ways you can reduce the amount of plastic you use. The news team also interviews Danny Martin, who talks about his recent transition from office coordinator to teacher of our newest elementary class (it was a good choice!). Plus, got jokes? Your joke, pun, or riddle could be featured in an upcoming segment of Stanbridge Student News—watch to find out how you can submit your best laugh lines for a future broadcast. All that, along with the latest important dates and upcoming events that you need to know about. Stay plugged-in to everything that's going on around campus with the newest webisode from Stanbridge Academy's most trusted news source!
 If you enjoyed the food and drinks at last year's gala, you're in for an even bigger and better treat this year. Our 2019 Spring Gala will feature a full dinner buffet that includes beef tenderloin, turkey, and eggplant involtini, plus a selection of fresh salads, an assortment of savory appetizers, delectable desserts, and—back by popular demand—the famous mashed potato bar. This year, we are also offering a fully-stocked open bar that will feature fine wines from our host winery, Domenico, as well as a variety of beers and potent potables (along with plenty of soft drinks, coffee, and tea). The event promises to be a night of hearty fare that pairs well with our live jazz band, and the even livelier mix of current and alumni parents, Stanbridge staff, trustees, and friends of the Stanbridge community. So come out to support our Bulldogs at our biggest and best fundraising gala yet--Saturday night, March 9th from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. at Domenico Winery in San Carlos. Tickets are available in the main office, or purchase tickets online by clicking here. RSVP deadline is February 15—get your tickets today!
 This Common Ground Speaker Series continues this week, with Justine Fonte presenting "Changing Bodies, Changing Times" on Tuesday and Wednesday at three different venues in the South Bay/San José area. Fonte, a leading sexuality educator and social justice activist, will explore the skills children and teens need to develop healthy relationships in today’s world. Her practical advice on raising today’s digitally-connected kids will include the changing dynamics of love, desire, and consent, as well as the importance of talking frankly with our kids about the psychological and social impact of pornography. Fonte will be presenting two different versions of her presentation: "Sex Ed 101" for parents of Pre-K students and older (Wednesday morning); and "Sex Ed in the Digital Age" for parents of preteens and teens (Tuesday and Wednesday evenings). Click here for more details on times and locations of this week's presentation, and for the full roster of this year's Common Ground speakers.
Stanbridge Academy is proud to be associated with the Common Ground Speaker Series. Each school year, the series presents distinguished speakers in education, parenting, and health at venues across the San Francisco Peninsula. Parents, faculty and staff of member schools attend Common Ground events free of charge. Guests not affiliated with a member school may attend for a $20 fee at the door.  We are excited to once again have Jesse Foster headlining a band of Bay Area jazz all-stars at our March 9th Stanbridge Spring Gala. This year's ensemble brings back vocalist Jesse Foster, Cedricke Dennis on guitar, and Mark Lee on drums—all of whom played together at the 2018 Stanbridge Spring Gala. This year, they will be joined by Greg Sankovich on keys, and Paul Eastburn on bass. Individually, these musicians have performed with Sly Stone, Bobby McFerrin, The Manhattan Transfer, Sting, Mary Wilson, Tiffany Austin, Keb Mo, The Pointer Sisters, The UC Jazz Ensemble, and more. Together, their decades of experience span generations of jazz, funk, fusion, rock, Motown, R&B, and pop. This is an amazing opportunity to see these musicians live as they keep the groove going all night long on Saturday, March 9th--click here to get your tickets, and be sure to bring your dancing shoes!
Bonus Links (click to access):  A new episode of Stanbridge Student News has been posted to our website's Parent Portal—Stanbridge families can access by using their portal password. The latest episode features an in-depth recap of our high school division's recent Alumni Panel held last week, highlighting the behind-the-scenes prep work done by our Bridges class students, and an exclusive interview with our Director of College Counseling and Transitions, Colleen McQuade. Plus, footage from the December holiday concert; an interview with new Office Coordinator Kristen Coleman; important upcoming dates and reminders; and a special astrological FYI report on this weekend's lunar eclipse. Our Stanbridge stars are covering all the news under the sun and then some in the latest webisode from Stanbridge Academy's most trusted news source!
 Stanbridge Academy is hosting a group tour this Wednesday, January 9, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. This free event is open to the public, and will feature an opportunity to talk with current Stanbridge families; meet with our Admissions Director, Head of School, and Principal; and tour our campus to see teachers and students in action. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the Stanbridge program whether you are thinking of enrolling your student this year or next, or if you simply want to know more about our school. Click here for more details and to RSVP—we look forward to seeing you!
(Can't make it this Wednesday? Join us next Wednesday, January 16, for a special High School Open House. Click here for details!) Attention high school students and parents: Did the College & Career Fair in November get you thinking about next steps after graduation? Are you wondering how to make the transition from Stanbridge to college or into the workforce? Curious about university life, what college classes are like, or how it feels to live away from home and on your own? Then join us on Thursday, January 10 for the annual Stanbridge Alumni Panel, where you'll hear stories from Stanbridge graduates who have successfully made their postsecondary transitions. The panel features Stanbridge alumni who are currently in college, recent college graduates, and those who are working in various career fields. Come listen to their experiences, get advice, and have your questions answered by former Stanbridge students who have been in your shoes. The event is free and will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on campus in the Marilyn Center. RSVP by contacting the main office, or click here to email Colleen McQuade, our Director of College Counseling & Transitions.
Attention all High School families: The Community for Special Education and the SFUSD Office of Counseling & Post-Secondary Success present the 2019 College and Career Fair for Students with Learning Supports. The event will be held on Saturday, February 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at City College of San Francisco's Multi-Use Building (MUB). In addition to the keynote speaker—Dr. Lauren Lindstrom, Dean of the UC Davis School of Education—Stanbridge Academy's own Director of College Counseling & Transitions, Colleen McQuade, will be presenting, along with numerous other college and career representatives. More details highlighted on the flyer below. Admission is free; click here to register in advance.   A new episode of Stanbridge Student News has been posted to our website's Parent Portal—Stanbridge families can access by using their portal password. The latest episode tips off with an in-depth interview with Stanbridge Athletic Director and Basketball Coach Mark Kelley, who previews the upcoming Bulldogs season. Additionally, current Bulldog players discuss what they are looking forward to in the upcoming season. Also in this episode, a look at some amazing artwork currently on display in Hayden Hall created by one of Stanbridge's sophomores; an international tour of holiday foods from around the world (goose and oysters...mmmmm); and an exclusive interview with new staff member Harriet Mukisa, who shares her highlights of Stanbridge so far. All this and more in the latest webisode from Stanbridge Academy's most trusted news source!
 Season's Greetings and Holiday Thank Yous to all of the Stanbridge families and staff members who have donated gifts to this year's Family Giving Tree donation drive. Dozens of holiday wishes will be fulfilled for families in need throughout the Bay Area thanks to your generosity. If you still would like to participate, there are still a few Wish List tags hanging on the tree in Hayden Hall—perhaps you can be the Secret Santa who gives someone a reason to smile this season. Tuesday is the final day of our donation drive before the junior high students and teachers load up the Stanbridge sleigh and head to the FGT Warehouse this Thursday, where they will personally deliver all of the collected items. Click here to read more about this annual holiday tradition at Stanbridge, and learn how you can help make somebody's holiday a little brighter and warmer this year!
 Attention Stanbridge families: You are invited to a special free screening of the film Intelligent Lives by filmmaker Dan Habib in celebration of Inclusive Schools Week.
Intelligent Lives stars three pioneering young American adults with intellectual disabilities—Michah, Naieer, and Naomie—who challenge perceptions of intelligence as they navigate high school, college, and the workforce. A post-film discussion with director Dan Habib and a panel of young adults with disabilities will follow the screening. Where: Mission High School (3750 18th Street, San Francisco) When: Wednesday, December 12 Reception: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Film Screening: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Cost: FREE! (Registration required–click for tickets)
This event is sponsored by:
 Stanbridge Academy is hosting a group tour this Wednesday, December 5 from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. This free event is open to the public, and will feature an opportunity to talk with current Stanbridge families; meet with our Admissions Director, Head of School, and Principal; and tour our campus to see teachers and students in action. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the Stanbridge program whether you are thinking of enrolling your student this year or next, or if you simply want to know more about our school. Click here for more details and to RSVP—we look forward to seeing you!
Thank you for visiting the Stanbridge Academy Bridge Blog! We hope you stop by regularly to check for the latest school news, features, updates, and highlights, but there's more to our social media outreach than the posts on this blog. Stanbridge maintains an active social media presence on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest, where we not only post school news and features, but also highlight stories of interest for our community. A perfect example is the article below shared on our Facebook page, which profiles Kalin Bennett, an autistic basketball player recruited by Kent State. Check out his story, and be sure to like, share, and check back for more throughout the year!
 A new episode of Stanbridge Student News has been posted to our website's Parent Portal—Stanbridge families can access by using their portal password. The latest episode features highlights from November's Scholastic Book Fair, as well as the College & Career Fair. Plus, junior high recalls favorite moments from their recent experiential trip to the Web of Life Field School in Aptos, the News Team provides a full report of upcoming events, and—in an SSN exclusive—new teacher Daniel Geller reveals a hidden urge to throw down the hammer when asked what superhero he would be. All this and more in the latest webisode from Stanbridge Academy's most trusted news source!
 Today is #GivingTuesday, and here at Stanbridge we are #GivingThanks to all of the donors who support our Annual Fund. Through your generosity, you are helping Stanbridge create opportunities for all of our students and their families. In the words of Chris Mak, Stanbridge trustee and parent representative of this year's Annual Fund Campaign:
“I am grateful to Stanbridge for creating possibilities for my son. Within a few years, he will get a chance to join the Bulldogs Basketball Team, maybe run for student government, and attend the High School Prom. After Stanbridge, his possibilities include continuing his education, maybe towards a certificate or a diploma. He may decide to join the workforce or volunteer at a non-profit instead. But these are all real opportunities and possibilities that Stanbridge can create for him. Opportunities that, honestly, he may not have at another school.” As we celebrate this day of gratitude which highlights the true spirit of the holiday season, we extend a sincere and heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who has helped make these opportunities a reality for our students, and whose support will continue to create endless possibilities. Click here for a full list of our 2018–2019 Annual Fund donors. Want to add your name to the list and be a part of creating even more possibilities for our students? Click here to make an online donation today!  A whole new round of clubs begin next Monday as we start the Winter Session! In clubs, students of varying grade levels and divisions work together toward achieving common goals — perhaps creating an end product, hitting that high note, or setting up a teammate to score another point. Clubs help promote self-awareness, self-management, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Click here for more information on this year's Winter Clubs offerings and to download an enrollment form. If you've already reserved enrollment, find your child's name on the club rosters online and at school this week. Remember, your registration is not complete until we receive your enrollment form with the appropriate payment; contact Linda in the main office with any questions.
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