About NorthBridge
What sets NorthBridge apart?
As the only Postsecondary Transition and Success Program for students with learning differences in Maricopa County, NorthBridge is excited to provide unique services, expand to new sites & help students achieve their academic goals.
The mission of NorthBridge is to provide support, resources, and guidance to students with learning differences as they transition to, persist, and succeed in their educational and vocational endeavors. These learning differences include dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, the Autism spectrum (ASD), non-verbal disorder (NVLD), sensory processing disorder (SPD), working memory, hearing and vision loss, anxiety, depression, and many other differences.
Holistic Support
The comprehensive design of the NorthBridge’s programs features a holistic support system that focuses both on academic success and personal development.
Long-Term Objectives
NorthBridge is not a tutoring center with short term objectives. We empower students to develop life-long confidence, build skills, gain independence and accomplish their goals for a successful future.
Education
Our staff & academic coaches are highly equipped & educated. While we require a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree, much of our team is pursuing their Masters Degree.
NorthBridge students are successful!
For young adults with learning differences, college may not seem like a viable option. Statistics show that students in college who have a diagnosed learning disability have higher dropout rates than those of their peers.
Quite the opposite is true for students at NorthBridge. When compared to all Arizona college students, the success rate for students receiving NorthBridge services far exceeds their peers. With the guidance, support and community of NorthBridge, college IS possible for students who learn differently.
Data
Student achievement at the NorthBridge shows a consistent pattern of academic success. Students that receive coaching and tutoring services are outperforming their peers at the community college level with successful course completions.
According to the AZDE Post-Secondary report, 83% of graduating high school students with documented disabilities do not go on to post-secondary education. For those that do, only 12% of those students decide to enroll at community college, while 5% enroll at university.
NorthBridge strives to bridge the gap for students with learning differences, as there is a 66% difference in median wages between Arizonans with a bachelor’s degree and peers with a high school diploma. A person’s educational attainment is one of the most important determinants of his or her life in terms of employment, income, health status, housing and other quality of life factors. We want to help our students gain full independence through their education.
%
graduation rate
average GPA
%
courses passed
NorthBridge abides by three values:
Opportunity, Individual Success, and Community
We believe that all students deserve the opportunity to believe that College is Possible.
We believe that all students deserve to experience success in their pursuit of a career pathway.
We believe that success is the result of individuals, families, communities, and business partners working together to achieve desired outcomes. Collaboration is essential to assisting our students.
NorthBridge students are successful!
For young adults with learning differences, college may not seem like a viable option. Statistics show that students in college who have a diagnosed learning disability have higher dropout rates than those of their peers.
Quite the opposite is true for students at NorthBridge. When compared to all Arizona college students, the success rate for students receiving NorthBridge services far exceeds their peers. With the guidance, support and community of NorthBridge, college IS possible for students who learn differently.
Data
Student achievement at the NorthBridge shows a consistent pattern of academic success. Students that receive coaching and tutoring services are outperforming their peers at the community college level with successful course completions.
According to the AZDE Post-Secondary report, 83% of graduating high school students with documented disabilities do not go on to post-secondary education. For those that do, only 12% of those students decide to enroll at community college, while 5% enroll at university.
NorthBridge strives to bridge the gap for students with learning differences, as there is a 66% difference in median wages between Arizonans with a bachelor’s degree and peers with a high school diploma. A person’s educational attainment is one of the most important determinants of his or her life in terms of employment, income, health status, housing and other quality of life factors. We want to help our students gain full independence through their education.
FAQ'S
Should I enroll in Northbridge?
If you are pursuing or planning to pursue a college degree, certification, or GED and are looking for guidance, NorthBridge can help!
The majority of our students have a diagnosed learning difference of dyslexia, ADHD, high functioning autism spectrum disorder, or other processing challenges but the program is open to all students seeking support to achieve post-secondary success.
Do you support high school students?
We sure do! NorthBridge mentors and academic specialists work with high school students in much the same manner they support our college students.
When should I apply?
Your dreams aren't waiting and neither should you! NorthBridge accepts applications throughout the year.
Is there a cost to receiving NorthBridge services?
There is zero cost for receiving NorthBridge services if you are an individual receiving services through Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) through the Arizona Department of Economic Security (AZDES)
In addition, NorthBridge is an Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) - approved vendor.
Scholarships are also available through Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation (AFFCF).
Possible discounts can be discussed for qualifying individuals.
What kinds of support do you offer?
We'll help you:
- Apply & enroll in college/vocational school
- Select your courses
- Succeed academically
We offer:
- 1-on-1 Tutoring
- Mentoring
- Social activities
- Skill-building workshops
What if I live out of state?
Don't worry! While we're located in Arizona, several of our students receive all or part of their mentoring or academic support virtually.
Are financial aid/scholarships available?
We want to eliminate as many barriers to success as possible! NorthBridge awards financial aid & scholarships on a needs-based, case-by-case basis. ESA and Vocational Rehab funds can also be used.
