Category: Bridgeport

Bridgeport Schools Strengthen Student Mental Health Services

Bridgeport, CT — April 25, 2025 — Bridgeport Public Schools (BPS) is taking a major step forward in student mental health support, celebrating the expansion of a vital partnership with Effective School Solutions (ESS). Local leaders, state legislators, and education officials recently gathered to mark the growth of the initiative, which aims to meet the increasing mental health needs of Bridgeport students with sustainable, cost-effective strategies.

Through the partnership, BPS and ESS are creating a comprehensive mental health continuum that prioritizes inclusion-based practices and provides critical emotional and behavioral support within the school community. The initiative directly addresses statewide challenges, including the rising demand for specialized mental health services, the growing costs of out-of-district placements, and the need for scalable support models.

Key outcomes from the collaboration are already visible. A dedicated ESS team of 10 professionals currently supports 147 students across six high-need Bridgeport schools, providing intensive clinical care and wraparound services. In addition to direct support, ESS is also training staff at the district’s Behavioral Learning Centers, equipping them to better meet students’ mental health needs.

One of the most significant achievements has been reducing the need for costly outplacements. So far, 35 students have been able to return to in-district programs, saving Bridgeport Public Schools an estimated $2.7 million.

The results from the strengthened partnership are striking:

Absenteeism: 73% of students with chronic absenteeism have significantly reduced their absences.

Behavioral Improvement: 70% of students with prior disciplinary issues have seen a major decrease in incidents.

Academic Performance: 69% of students with GPAs below 2.0 have either maintained or improved their grades.

Parent Satisfaction: 93% of parents and caregivers report being satisfied or very satisfied with the support their children are receiving.

“This partnership with ESS is a game-changer for our district,” said Dr. Royce Avery, Interim Superintendent of Bridgeport Public Schools. “By integrating mental health services within our schools, we are addressing critical needs and ensuring our students have the support to succeed both academically and emotionally. This collaboration is a model for how we can create lasting impact.”

Bridgeport Public Schools, which serves more than 20,000 students across 40 schools, is committed to expanding this work to build a sustainable, inclusive support system that ensures all students have access to the mental health services they need to thrive.

For more information, visit www.bridgeportedu.net

Bridgeport Police Investigating Two Morning Commercial Burglaries

Bridgeport Police are investigating two separate commercial burglaries reported Thursday morning. The first was reported at 9:09 a.m. in the 700 block of Arctic Street, and the second at 10:34 a.m. in the 500 block of Hallett Street.

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Ribbon Cutting Marks Grand Opening of NY Caffeine’s Newest Location in Downtown Bridgeport

Bridgeport, CT — Downtown Bridgeport is now buzzing with even more energy as NY Caffeine officially opened its doors at 855 Main Street with a celebratory ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday. Local officials, community leaders, and coffee enthusiasts gathered to welcome the café’s newest location to the heart of the city.

The event drew enthusiastic support from city leadership, including Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim, who joined in the celebration and congratulated the NY Caffeine team for investing in the city’s vibrant downtown. “We’re thrilled to welcome a new business to our community,” said Mayor Ganim. “This is a great addition to Main Street and a sign of the continued revitalization happening in Bridgeport.”

With warm remarks and applause from attendees, NY Caffeine co-founder Mike expressed his appreciation for the warm reception. “We’re so happy to be in Connecticut,” he said. “Thank you to the mayor, the councilwoman, and everyone who made this possible. We’re excited for what’s ahead.”

City Council President Aidee Nieves also welcomed the café, emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses. “It’s always a great honor to be a part of a new business opening downtown,” said Nieves. “This location not only adds to the growth of Main Street, but it also creates a vibrant new space for residents and visitors alike.”

NY Caffeine brings with it a reputation for creativity, quality, and a memorable café experience. Known for its whimsical and Instagram-worthy drink presentations, the brand has earned a devoted following at its original location in Franklin Square, NY. The new Bridgeport spot promises that same beach club cabana vibe, along with a robust menu of specialty drinks, Italian desserts, and fresh pastries.

During the ribbon cutting, attendees had the chance to sample a few of NY Caffeine’s signature treats. Among the highlights was a cookie dough croissant, featuring a perfectly flaky, crisp exterior that gave way to a warm, gooey cookie dough center. Also on offer was the Dubai Chocolate Brownie, a rich and dense brownie with a pistachio cream center layered with crispy kadayif, adding a delightful crunch that complemented the soft interior and crisp outer edges.

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