Education Magazine names Bradley Union School District among top districts
Superintendent Josh Van Norman credits community-centered leadership
– Bradley Union School District was named one of the “10 Most Admired School Districts” in the United States by The Education Magazine, according to a recent announcement.
The recognition highlights changes within the rural district, which was established in 1886 and serves students in Bradley. According to the district, enrollment has increased by nearly 50 percent over the past two years, including a 38 percent increase in the past year. The district serves a student population that includes Hispanic and Caucasian students.
The publication cited the district’s academic programs, community involvement, and growth as factors in the recognition. The district reported that it was recently selected to attend an international education summit in Helsinki, Finland, and is a member of the League of Innovative Schools, a national network recognized by Congress.
The district also uses instructional approaches that include “Room Transformations,” which convert classrooms into themed learning environments, and a “Houses” system designed to group students and staff. According to the district, students in grades two through eight participate in the Beable Career Development Platform, which connects reading instruction with career exploration.
Superintendent and principal Josh Van Norman said the recognition reflects the district’s focus on its community.
“At Bradley, we are committed to seeing our students develop their ‘Pathway to the Future,’” says Van Norman. “My focus is always on people—supporting students, staff, and families. This recognition belongs to our entire community, from the teachers crafting differentiated instruction to the students running the AIDS LifeCycle lunch service. We have built a culture of trust where history and innovation meet.”
District officials said partnerships with outside organizations contributed to the recognition. Those partnerships include California Resources Corporation, Chevron, Joby Aviation, Union Pacific, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Cal State Monterey Bay. According to the district, the partnerships provide opportunities such as internships and job shadowing.
The district also reported partnerships focused on student services, including Care Solace for access to mental health and support services, as well as arts and athletics programs offered in collaboration with Sol Treasures and First Tee.
Bradley Union School District is located in Bradley, California, and serves students from transitional kindergarten through eighth grade. The district was established near the Southern Pacific Railroad tracks and offers a Common Core curriculum along with elective programs.
