Bridge Academy proudly hosted its inaugural flag-raising ceremony this morning, marking the installation of a new flagpole on campus. The event brought together students, staff, community leaders, and veterans to celebrate this important milestone.
Students from the Military Leadership program at Twin Falls High School led the program. They provided an introduction to flag etiquette, explained what the American flag symbolizes, and demonstrated how it should be handled with respect and 
reverence. Several students also shared their educational journeys, including one who reflected on how Bridge Academy helped set him on the right path. The Military Leadership students went on to describe their own pathways through the Twin Falls School District, what the leadership class has meant to them, and their future goals, which include serving in various branches of the military.
“It means a lot to me,” said military leadership student Adam Woodman, who attended Bridge Academy. “This was the start of my rising. I was at rock bottom before I came here. This school gave me tools to work with to get to where I am today - to be willing to take these risks to find where I need to go now.”
Special guests in attendance included Representative David Leavitt (District 25), County Commissioners Don Hall and Rocky Matthews, representatives from the American Legion Post in Twin Falls, TFSD Trustee Heidi Casdorph, Twin Falls City Council Member Chris Reid, and other community members.
Following the students’ presentation, the entire Bridge Academy student body gathered outside for the ceremonial raising of the flag. The Military Leadership students conducted the raising, and all attendees joined together to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
“I’m just grateful for the opportunity to watch these students show respect for the flag and show their patriotism and have such wonderful support for them,” said TFSD school board trustee Heidi Casdorph. “This is a small group, but they are mighty, and they’re great kids, and they deserve the opportunity to raise the US flag.”
The new flag pole and inaugural ceremony reflect Bridge Academy’s commitment to fostering pride, unity, and respect within its school community.