Autism Acceptance Month Celebration at Miami‑Dade B.R.I.D.G.E.S.
This week, the Miami‑Dade B.R.I.D.G.E.S. teachers hosted a morning filled with inclusion, learning, and fun as the entire student body came together to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month. The event highlighted the strength of community and the importance of acceptance for all.
Special thanks to Miami Dade Fire Rescue & Hispanic American Firefighters Association for sponsoring the celebration and providing memorable, hands‑on experiences. Students explored interactive activities such as holding a boa, practicing CPR techniques, and enjoying sweet treats, popcorn, and live music.
The school marching band added energy and excitement to the celebration, with Luis performing on the trumpet as part of the band. In preparation for Autism Acceptance Month, students in the Exceptional Student Education Department showcased their creativity by submitting artwork now proudly displayed in the school art gallery. The pieces reflect incredible imagination, effort, and pride.
We are extremely proud of the teachers for their continued dedication and the meaningful work they do every day to promote Autism Acceptance, Understanding, and Inclusion.
B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Building Connections in the Community!
Our B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had an incredible experience at the David Posnak Jewish Community Center, where they learned about the GAP Program and spent time at Square Bowl—both designed to promote independence, inclusion, and real‑world skill building.
The GAP Program supports young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities by focusing on social development, life skills, vocational readiness, and independent living through hands‑on, community‑based experiences. It helps participants build confidence while preparing for life beyond the classroom.
Students also explored Square Bowl, an innovative food truck that provides meaningful employment opportunities through the HIRE‑Ability Program. This vocational training program offers certification and real‑world experience in the restaurant, hospitality, and food service industries, with the goal of placing participants in jobs through strong community partnerships.
The best part of the morning? Our students reconnected with former B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students who are now attending programs at the JCC! Seeing familiar faces and celebrating their continued growth made this a truly special full‑circle moment.
Experiences like this help our students envision what’s next and highlight the power of community, opportunity, and inclusion.
2nd Annual Parent Night: Connect, Learn & Support
HDS Foundation hosted a successful 2nd Annual Parent Night at Outback, featuring guest speaker Nathalie Stanish, Manager at UM/NSU CARD- Center for Autism and Related Disorders.
Parents from our B.R.I.D.G.E.S. classes received important information on post‑secondary education options, with a focus on Helping Students Succeed: Navigating College Pathways, Vocational Programs, and Employment Preparation.
The evening sparked meaningful questions, connections, and shared experiences among parents in a welcoming and supportive environment.
A special thank you to Joshua Simons, Manager at Davie Outback and his team for hosting us and generously donating appetizers to support this important event for our families.
B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Go to College!
Our students had an amazing day exploring Broward College, getting a firsthand look at college life, academic programs, and the supports available to students with disabilities.
One of the highlights was a hands-on STEM session where students coded and programmed Lego robotic cars—testing commands, problem solving together, and even racing their robots! The activity sparked creativity, teamwork, communication, and lots of excitement.
Students also learned about the BC NEST Program and Accessibility Resources, gaining insight into supports that promote independence and success in college. The experience was further enriched through a Q&A with Broward College Peer Mentors, where students asked thoughtful questions and built self-advocacy skills in a real college environment.
The visit wrapped up with pizza on campus and time to reflect on a fun, meaningful experience that supported transition planning, self-advocacy, and postsecondary readiness.
Thank you, Broward College South Campus, for an inspiring and inclusive visit!
World Autism Day
Our great HDS Family supporting World Autism Day!
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