2026 Bridge Conference

There is a trend in our society of having a negative, fixed mindset surrounding mathematics. This view is prevalent in learners of all ages, and is reinforced in how math is commonly discussed. When educators see themselves as ‘bad’ at math and vocalize that mindset (even with positive intentions), that negativity can add to students’ mathematical insecurity and impact their approach to the subject. We are passionate about empowering all learners to become problem solvers and to see themselves as mathematicians. To make this shift, we need to reframe our language around math, and utilize more accessible and engaging math activities. We are excited to share some evidence-based content and techniques that you can implement in your learning spaces to empower students, staff, and yourself to become confident mathematicians. With the right tools and mindset, we can all be problem solvers!

In this workshop presented by the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC), we will discuss Washington state financial aid programs, statewide efforts, and how to support students applying for state financial aid. We will give you a sneak peek into the new Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA). In addition, we will explore systemic
barriers to financial aid equity and present strategies for facilitating student access. Participants will leave with free customizable resources they can use to develop their own financial aid access strategies.

Drawing on doctoral research with high school Black girls (ages 13–18) in Worcester, MA, this interactive workshop explores how Black girls act as architects of their own belonging across out-of-school-time (OST) programs and city spaces. Participants will examine "underground geographies of belonging" such as the informal networks of care, safety, and community Black girls create beyond institutional boundaries. Using a Black girl-centered mapping tool, attendees will analyze how belonging is shaped across micro (relationships), meso (organizations), and macro (city systems) levels. Rather than introducing a new model of belonging, this workshop centers the methods Black girls already use to create it and explores how organizational design, evaluation practices, and belonging metrics can be grounded in Black girls' existing ways of knowing, being, and building community. Participants will leave with a framework for rethinking how organizations define, measure, and cultivate belonging from the ground up.