BRIDGEPORT — The end of the 2025-2026 school year in the Bridgeport Exempted Village School District brought a mix of celebration and transition as leaders highlighted major facility progress while preparing to say goodbye to a longtime middle school principal.

Bridgeport Middle School Principal Anne Haverty Lawson was recognized during the district’s annual awards ceremony, where students and staff applauded her 13 years of leadership guiding students from elementary school into high school.

Her retirement marks the end of a tenure officials credited with steady leadership during a key transition period for students.

At the same time, Superintendent Brent Ripley led district staff on a tour of the nearly completed multipurpose facility known as “the Bridge,” a 31,000-square-foot project scheduled to open Aug. 13.

Ripley highlighted the building’s flexible design, security features and wide range of planned uses, including classrooms for EMT and paramedic training, phlebotomy instruction and other health care programs developed in partnership with hospitals and universities. The facility will also support adult education programs.

He said the space will integrate services such as OhioRISE, which connects families with behavioral and developmental resources, along with expanded College Credit Plus opportunities.

Other areas include early childhood education spaces, veterinary service training rooms, a STEAM lab focused on robotics and drones, and a student-run coffee bar designed to provide business experience.

Ripley said the building was designed for maximum flexibility, allowing spaces to shift as workforce needs change.

“The Bridge” will also include a fitness center, golf simulator and walking track intended for use by students and community members.

Officials said the project represents both a physical expansion and a broadening of educational opportunities across the district.