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The Voice of the District
The Voice of Bridgeport is the official podcast of Bridgeport Public Schools, created to keep our community informed, engaged, and connected. Each episode features conversations with district leaders, educators, students, families, and community partners as we explore the progress, challenges, and initiatives shaping our schools.
Through transparent dialogue and real stories from across the district, this podcast offers listeners an inside look at the work happening every day to support our students’ success. Whether we’re discussing academics, operations, student voice, facilities, partnerships, or board governance, The Voice of Bridgeport brings forward timely information and meaningful perspectives to keep our community updated.
Tune in every Friday to stay informed and inspired as we continue moving Bridgeport Public Schools forward, together.
The Voice of the District
The Voice of the District | Episode 05 w. Dr. Royce Avery
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In Episode 05 of Voice of the District, Interim Superintendent Dr. Royce Avery discusses the district’s proposed budget and the long-standing funding challenges facing Bridgeport Public Schools.
Dr. Avery explains that these challenges did not happen overnight and are the result of decades of underfunding that affect urban districts across Connecticut. Rising costs and growing student needs, particularly in special education and multilingual learner services, have continued to outpace available funding.
During the episode, he walks through the three budget options presented to the Board, including the status quo budget, his recommended budget to sustain current operations, and a school-based budget built directly from input shared by principals and school leaders. He also highlights the steps the district has taken to manage costs responsibly while maintaining services for students.
Dr. Avery closes by emphasizing that continued progress depends on investing in schools, supporting staff, and meeting the real needs of students, and that the budget conversation reflects a shared responsibility to the Bridgeport community.