Parent & Student Resources
A central place for handbooks, calendars, and helpful information for Bridge families.
Bridge Documents
Official documents for enrolled and prospective families. Click any document to open or download.
New Family Overview
A simple overview of how The Bridge works, what to expect, and how to prepare for your first day.
PDF →2026–27 Parent Handbook
Complete policies and procedures including campus, behavior, dress code, and financial policies.
PDF →Campus Map & Parking
Directions, parking areas, drop-off/pick-up procedures, and campus layout at Macon Road Baptist Church.
PDF →Attendance & Absences Policy
How to report absences, expectations for class attendance, and communication guidelines.
PDF →Weather & Closures Policy
How closure decisions are made, how families are notified, and what to do when classes are cancelled or delayed.
PDF →2026–27 Academic Calendar
Key dates for both semesters of the upcoming school year.
Fall Semester
- First Day of ClassesAugust 11 & 13
- Fall BreakOctober 12–16
- Thanksgiving BreakNovember 23–27
- Last Day of ClassesDecember 8 & 10
Spring Semester
- First Day of ClassesJanuary 12 & 14
- Spring BreakMarch 15–19
- Last Day of ClassesMay 4 & 6
Understanding The Bridge’s Role
The Bridge is NOT an umbrella school. Parents are responsible for registering with a Tennessee umbrella school for all legal educational requirements and cumulative records. Classes at The Bridge are supplementary and designed to enhance — not replace — the teaching of the parent in the home.
Parents are expected to play an active daily/weekly role in:
- New material presented in class
- Assignments given for each class during the week
- Preparation for the next week’s class
- Assurance that assignments are turned in on time
Parental follow-up and daily involvement are vital to the success of each student.
Tennessee Umbrella Schools
All Bridge families must be registered with a Tennessee umbrella school. Below are options serving the Shelby County and Mid-South region.
HomeLife Academy
A non-traditional K–12 private school serving homeschooling families for over 15 years.
FaithHeritage Christian Academy
Provides support, record-keeping, and accountability for homeschooling and on-campus families.
Gateway Christian Schools
Offers a variety of services including curriculum guidance and standardized testing.
For complete Tennessee homeschool requirements, visit the Tennessee Department of Education →
Tennessee Homeschool Laws
Key legal requirements for homeschooling families in Tennessee.
Compulsory Attendance
Tennessee requires children ages 6–17 to attend school. Homeschooling is a recognized legal means of fulfilling this requirement.
Notice of Intent
Parents may be required to submit a notice of intent to their local school district, depending on whether they are independent or registered through an umbrella school.
Curriculum
There is no required curriculum, but parents are considered the teachers and are responsible for subjects required by state law.
Attendance & Records
Homeschoolers must maintain attendance records and submit them to their umbrella school or local school district annually.
Testing
Standardized testing may be required for certain grades depending on the umbrella school’s policies.
New to Homeschooling?
Homeschooling is a unique and rewarding opportunity to take an active role in your child’s education. You don’t need a college degree or teaching certificate — just commitment, intentionality, and a love of learning.
Research & Prepare
Start by researching your state’s homeschooling laws, then identify your child’s learning style to guide your curriculum choices.
Create Your Schedule
Build a daily schedule that balances academics, extracurriculars, and family time — with room for flexibility and real-world learning.
Embrace the Fun!
Pack a lunch and head to the park, visit the Zoo, build something, or explore nature. Learning happens everywhere — not just at the kitchen table.
Find Your Community
Connect with local homeschool groups and tutorials like The Bridge for support, resources, and encouragement — especially for subjects you don’t want to tackle alone.
For a detailed guide on beginning your homeschooling journey:
How to Start Homeschooling Your Children — Parents Magazine →Faith & Philosophy
Articles and perspectives on Christian homeschooling and family education.
Should Christians Send Their Kids to Public Schools?
Davis Carman challenges Christian parents to reconsider public schooling, citing concerns about anti-Christian values and the importance of nurturing a biblical worldview. Drawing from 30 years of homeschooling experience, he argues that homeschooling or private Christian education offers the best foundation for faith-led parenting.
Read the full article →Helpful Links
Curated websites and organizations for homeschooling families.
Legal & Advocacy
- HSLDA — Legal advice and support for homeschool families
- TN Department of Education
Homeschool Organizations
Curriculum & Learning
- Time4Learning — Online curriculum Pre-K to 12th
- Khan Academy — Free educational videos and courses
- Homeschool.com — Guides and community forums
- The Old Schoolhouse Magazine — Curriculum reviews and tips
Need Help Finding Something?
If you can’t locate a document or have questions about programs, registration, or policies, we’re happy to help.
Or call us at (901) 451-9857