Henrico County Public Schools’ Bridge Builders Academy workshops continue Jan. 25

Henrico County Public Schools’ Bridge Builders Academy workshop series will continue with six sessions beginning Jan. 25. The series is designed to provide information and build connections among families, the community and the school division.

The winter edition of the Bridge Builders Academy series includes a mix of virtual and in-person workshops, presented by specialists. More information about the workshops, as well as instructions and links for participating in virtual sessions, can be found at www.henricoschools.us/bridgebuildersacademy. Many workshops are recorded for later viewing, and past sessions are available for viewing on the page. The series is presented by HCPS’ Department of Family and Community Engagement.

Each of the workshops in the series represents one of four “learning strands,” or categories: Beyond the Classroom; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Exceptional Education; and Information, Access and Opportunities.

The coming sessions (along with the learning strands to which they relate) are:

• “Body Image and Behavior: What’s the Connection?” Jan. 25 at 6 p.m. (virtual) – Body image can play a role in how girls perceive themselves and can affect self-esteem and behavior. Participants will receive tools to improve body image and positive decision-making. (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion)

• “English Language Learners Information Session,” Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. (virtual) – Families learning English can receive clarification on information about school and community updates. Sessions are presented in English, Spanish, Arabic, Dari, Portuguese and Vietnamese. (Information, Access and Opportunities.)

• “Understanding the Dynamics of Cyberbullying and Our Youth,” Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. (virtual) – Technology has increased instances of cyberbullying. Individuals with disabilities are at a greater risk of being cyberbullied and of using technology to bully someone else. Learn about the types of cyberbullying and warning signs, and explore the motivations of those who engage in cyberbullying. (Exceptional Education)

• “The Disintegrating Student,” March 8 at 6 p.m. (virtual) – Learn about developmental and cultural influences that can cause students to feel overwhelmed and stressed and about the academic and emotional effects, as well as why students don’t ask for help. Find out how to help your child embrace what’s going right, address what’s going wrong and develop the skills they need for success. (Beyond the Classroom)

• “Exceptional Education Resource Fair,” March 16 at 6 p.m. (Henrico H.S., 302 Azalea Ave., Henrico) – The transition to adulthood can be an exciting and challenging time for families, particularly for students with special needs. Speak with educators and representatives of organizations from across central Virginia and learn about resources that can help students and families prepare for life after high school. (Exceptional Education)

• “More Than Sad,” March 22 at 6 p.m. (Libbie Mill Library, 2100 Libbie Lake East St., Henrico) – Learn how to recognize signs of depression and other mental health problems, initiate a conversation about mental health with your child and learn about available support services. This program is appropriate for general audiences and for participants ages 18 and older. (Beyond the Classroom)

The sessions are moderated by the HCPS Family and Educator Resource Center, in conjunction with the session presenters. Questions about workshops should be directed to ansimms@henrico.k12.va.us.