Takoma Park: DBCR Bridge Program a Great Success

By Fr. Lenny Carlino, SDB

(Takoma Park, MD – August 16) – The Freshman Bridge program is a three-week orientation for all incoming freshmen to Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School (DBCR) and Corporate Work Study Program. From Monday, July 25, through Friday, August 12, the 101 new freshman students, along with many faculty and staff of DBCR, were in attendance.

Students began each day with morning prayers and assembly in common led by the SDB community. Each day featured an introduction to a Salesian "personality" (Don Bosco, Dominic Savio, Francis de Sales, etc.). Regular days reflected a normal school day schedule, and students participated in English, math, executive skills, and school culture classes. Fridays were field trip days, which included a Metro training, ropes course, and closing Mass at the National Basilica. The program helped new students to feel part of the Salesian Family and prepare to begin their high school journey. The SDB community was actively present throughout the weeks accompanying students through presence, leading school culture classes, and leading morning prayers. 

The school year will officially begin on Friday, August 26, with the opening school Mass and annual celebration of "Founder's Day."