Louise Estiverne, a 7th grade Bilingual TAG student, gave a presentation called “The Eyes.”
Bridgeport Middle School students showed off their talents at the 3rd Annual Bilingual Talented and Gifted (TAG) Expo at Cesar Batalla School on June 4. Student presentations covered a wide variety of topics including science, medicine, history, and debates on several subjects.
The event also recognized students, parents, and community leaders for their support throughout the year. Greater Bridgeport Latino Network (GBLN) members Elena Padin and Paul Arroyo received the 2015 Community Award for their work with TAG students in establishing several community engagement programs. GBLN, with a grant from Pitney Bowes, helped the TAG students plan a highly successful Red Cross blood and bone marrow drive, as well as a fundraising effort for the Bridgeport Animal Shelter.
TAG student Jessandra Santiago gave a presentation on the heart and discussed the causes of heart disease.
Bilingual TAG teacher Ana Batista said the expo began in 2013 and has grown each year. “This program focuses on improving home and school connections, while highlighting the excellent work of our gifted and talented students,” she said. “The entire community looks forward to the event every year and the students are motivated and excited to present their topics.”
More than 200 family members and over thirty teachers attended the event that featured more than 70 students showcasing their work. After the event, parents raved about the TAG program and expressed how rewarding it was to see all the hard word of the students. Almost all of the parents said they gained new insight and information about the topics presented and said they now have a better understanding of their role in the education of their child. Here are some of their comments as stated on the exit survey.
“The children were excellent.”
“My daughter enjoys this program very much and it has helped her become a better student.”
“Thank you for giving my child this amazing opportunity.”
“Excellent presentations. Keep up the great work.”
“We hope to continue the program in the coming years so that students can showcase their work, gain confidence, and share their projects with families and the school community,” said Batista.
