As the gentle notes of “Subwoofer Lullaby” filled the air, Jerimiah Worley, a fourth-grader at Bridges Learning Center, began his performance with a tentative touch on the electric keyboard. Beside him, music therapist Edie Steiner accompanied him, creating a harmonious atmosphere in the transformed classroom, now a vibrant performance venue. With each passing moment, Jerimiah’s confidence blossomed, culminating in a heartfelt round of applause at the school’s third annual talent show, Bridges Got Talent.
Among the diverse array of performances were inspiring presentations by third-grade girls on influential women in history, a lively ensemble of drummers, and a full-band rendition of Fiona Apple’s “Criminal.” Steiner reflected on the significance of such moments, stating, “It’s a tremendous gift to be able to help somebody write the soundtrack of their life.”
Self-expression is key for Bridges students in Akron
Bridges Learning Center caters to approximately 120 students with emotional or behavioral needs within the Akron Public Schools system. Here, students receive tailored social-emotional and mental health support, which can be challenging to provide in traditional classroom settings. Established in 2006, Bridges emerged from programs that were previously divided between Betty Jane Elementary and Goodyear Middle School. Recently, the school expanded its offerings to include a program for students up to 21 years old with significant cognitive disabilities.
Principal Michele Angelo noted that while some students spend their entire K-12 journey at Bridges, others benefit from mentorship by the nearly 70-person staff before transitioning back to their home schools. Last year, the school proudly graduated about 10 percent of its students, equipping them with skills honed through music and art therapy sessions.
“We offer them a lot,” Angelo remarked, “but there’s a lot of missed opportunities for them when they’re not able to be in a home school with ‘regular ed’ peers.”
Steiner hopes music will foster connection, conversation
As the sole music therapist in the district, Steiner embraces her unique role, teaching students not only how to play instruments but also how to explore the lyrics and melodies that resonate with their experiences. Many seniors recall songs learned in their early years, with those lyrics now woven into their personal narratives.
In the lead-up to the talent show, student performers had the autonomy to choose their audience, inviting family members and school staff alike. Guest judges provided encouragement after each act, reinforcing the supportive environment. “Even though we call it a talent show, this is really a culmination of all the work that the kids do throughout the year in their art and music therapy sessions and classes,” Angelo explained.
Aunt: Music and coding are big interests for her nephew, a Bridges student
Jerimiah’s aunt, Stasha Heller, reminisced about her nephew’s early fascination with music, recalling how he has been immersed in it since childhood. “He’s been into music since he was a toddler,” she shared, reflecting on his performance with pride. “It was amazing. I enjoyed it. It was good to see him tough it out — we started rocky and then we finished out strong.”
For Jerimiah, music and coding are intertwined passions, and his choice of “Minecraft” music beautifully encapsulated this blend.
Student artworks show toolkit for social-emotional wellbeing
In the cafeteria, student artwork showcased the creative expressions nurtured through Shenan May’s art therapy sessions. The vibrant pieces, created using oil pastels, watercolors, and various collage techniques, offered viewers a glimpse into the emotional landscapes of each child. Miles Waldrup, one of the young artists, articulated his intent in an accompanying statement: “One thing I want people to notice when they look at my work is what I am trying to say with my art. Making art makes me feel happy and calm.”
May collaborates closely with Bridges students, providing them with essential tools to navigate their daily experiences. For some, this toolkit includes sensory items like squishy stress balls or hard candies, designed to help them regain focus and calm. “They now have [tools] from music and art therapy to take with them so they can graduate from this program and go back to their home school,” May noted. “It’s incredible.”
Principal: Kids going through ‘life-changing, life-altering improvements’
As Angelo observed the performances and artwork, she was reminded of the transformative work occurring at Bridges. While the talent show may have felt like a typical day, it served as a celebration of the significant progress made by students and staff alike. “Some of our kids are going through, quite frankly, life-changing, life-altering improvements,” she stated. “That’s kind of what this day represents for all of them.”
Steiner expressed her hope that the music students create will resonate with their families for years to come, sparking meaningful conversations. She envisions a future where her students share their musical journeys with their children and grandchildren, passing down the joy and lessons learned. “They’ll just pay it forward,” Steiner concluded.
