Bridgeport, CT – Harding High School, a growing institution both academically and culturally, is grappling with the challenges of increased enrollment. The school’s expanding student body has strained its existing facilities, leading to overcrowding and limitations on athletic programs.

Dr. Carmela M. Levy-David, Superintendent of Bridgeport Public Schools has outlined the school’s efforts to address these issues. One significant step is the conversion of three open collaborative spaces into classrooms, providing an additional 90 seats for students. This strategic move aims to alleviate the pressure on existing classroom capacity.

To further support students’ academic and personal growth, the school has also added counseling support. This increased presence of counselors will allow for more frequent interactions with students, providing them with valuable guidance and support as they navigate their educational journey.

Athletic programs at Harding High School have been particularly impacted by the overcrowding. The school’s gymnasium, originally designed for 850 students, now accommodates a student body of 1,250. This limited space has hindered the school’s ability to host state tournament games.

To address these challenges, the district is undertaking a comprehensive demographic study and a facilities master plan. These initiatives aim to identify potential locations within the city where a new sports complex can be built, serving all of the local high schools. Such a facility would provide much-needed space for athletic programs and enable the schools to host regional and state tournaments.

As Harding High School continues to evolve and grow, the district’s commitment to providing a quality education and supportive environment for its students remains unwavering. The proposed solutions, including the classroom conversion, increased counseling support, and the development of a new sports complex, reflect the district’s dedication to addressing the challenges posed by the school’s growing enrollment.