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Community High School District 155

Enter with Promise. Leave with Purpose.

Bridge/SHIELD Program

Bridge/SHIELD Program

Within the Cary Grove High School environment (SHIELD program) and the Crystal Lake Central environment (Bridge program), the SHIELD/Bridge programs offer a centralized setting for these supports to take place in. The Bridge/Shield Program is a specialized, dual-purpose learning environment designed to provide students with a supported study hall that prioritizes Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) alongside academic rigor. This space is accessible to students during their regularly assigned periods, but it also serves as a flexible resource they can utilize on an as-needed basis throughout the school day when obstacles arise.

The Bridge/Shield classrooms are staffed by a multidisciplinary team of certified educators and student service professionals (including school counselors, social workers, and psychologists). Together, they work to help students process emotional or behavioral hurdles in real-time, ensuring they are regulated and ready to fully access their education.

The following components are integral to this programming:

  • Academic Support & Advocacy: Regular grade checks are conducted to monitor progress. Staff provide direct assistance with missing assignments and offer one-on-one help with challenging coursework to ensure students remain on track for graduation.
  • A Therapeutic Sanctuary: The Bridge/Shield program provides a safe space for students during moments of struggle. Immediate access to mental health professionals allows students to de-escalate and problem-solve in a supportive setting.
  • Proactive SEL Curriculum: Students are engaged in a formal Social-Emotional Learning curriculum. This helps build the foundational skills such as self-regulation, empathy, and responsible decision-making necessary for long-term success.
  • Positive Reinforcement: To encourage growth, an Incentive Closet is offered. Students can "cash in" points earned through academic achievements and the demonstration of pro-social behaviors, fostering a culture of personal accountability and pride.