529 Noble Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06608
Phone: 203-333-9128
Fax: 203-333-9142

Opened: August 2007
Grades: Five to seven (growing to five to eight)
Number of Students in 2009-10: 232
Student Demographics in 2009-10:
47% Boys, 53% Girls
99% African American or Hispanic
71% Qualify for Free and Reduced Lunch

Overview

Achievement First Bridgeport Academy’s 2007 start-up marked an important milestone in Achievement First history—the expansion of our Connecticut family beyond New Haven. This took some cunning and courage, so it is fitting that the school’s mascot is the lion. For scholars, the lion symbolizes a school culture that takes great pride in personal achievement, teamwork and strong community bonds. Students gather on Friday afternoons for Pride Circle, where individuals are recognized for academic accomplishments and acting in ways that show the REACH values (Respect, Enthusiasm, Achievement, Citizenship and Hard Work). Achievement First Bridgeport Academy is one of three schools piloting Life Prep, a new Achievement First program focusing on character education. As part of the program, students partner with local charities and non-profit organizations in the Bridgeport area to raise funds and provide volunteer services.

School Leader

Debon Lewis is the principal of Achievement First Bridgeport Academy Middle School. Mr. Lewis is a native of Jamaica, W.I. and grew up in Brooklyn, NY. Mr. Lewis earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, where he double majored in political science and African American studies. During his sophomore year, he became involved in education as a history instructor for Boy's Harbor, teaching African American history to 10th graders. This experience sparked his interest in a career in education. Upon graduating, Mr. Lewis joined Teach For America and spent two years teaching sixth, seventh and eighth grade social studies at Brownsville Middle School in Miami, FL. There he served as site director of the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Club of Miami Dade. In 2004, he was recognized as one of six finalists for Rookie Teacher of the Year for the Miami Dade County school district, one of the largest school districts in the country. Mr. Lewis joined Achievement First in 2005, motivated by his desire to ensure that children like himself receive a quality education and to create an environment dedicated to student success. Mr. Lewis taught fifth-grade reading, history and science at Achievement First Crown Heights Middle School in Brooklyn, NY, and most recently, served as academic dean / principal-in-residence at Achievement First Endeavor Middle School. Mr. Lewis attended the KIPP Leadership Institute at Stanford University and is currently completing his M.A. in educational administration.