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I, Alicia Nutall-Simmons, have always been driven by a passion for education and a desire to impact students’ lives positively. Growing up, I was fascinated by how learning could unlock doors to new possibilities and empower individuals to reach their full potential.
My educational journey is unique. It started with my associate’s degree from Northwest Community College and culminated in a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Mississippi. During this time, I found my true calling as an educator, teaching grades 2-5 in the largest school district in Tennessee.
My professional growth has been instrumental in shaping my role as an educator. As an instructional literacy coach at the district and state levels, I created engaging professional development opportunities for teachers, deepening my understanding of pedagogy and instilling a sense of purpose—knowing I was helping shape the next generation of educators.
My thirst for knowledge and growth led me to pursue further education, earning my master’s degree from Cambridge College and my specialist degree from Liberty University in school supervision. These experiences further honed my skills as an educational leader and prepared me for the role of instructional support analyst and project manager for school operations.
However, when I earned my doctorate in school leadership from the American College of Education in 2022, I felt truly ready to take the reins as the founder and owner of Building Bridges Institute for Learning. This milestone marked a turning point in my career as I embarked on a new path dedicated to empowering children with the skills and strategies they need to succeed.
In 2017, I was selected as an ASCD emerging leader among only 46 educators chosen from a pool of thousands. The 2017 class included superintendents, principals and assistant principals, teachers, and literacy coaches (among other roles and titles), hailing from 23 U.S. states, China, Colombia, Canada, Singapore, Taiwan, and Pakistan. This experience was a tremendous honor and provided me with valuable opportunities for networking and learning alongside some of the most innovative educators in the world.
With 21 years of experience in education, I’ve had the privilege of working with students from diverse backgrounds and abilities. My endorsements in ESL and SPED have given me a unique understanding of the importance of inclusive learning environments that cater to individual needs. This commitment is at the core of my educational philosophy.
Today, as the leader of Building Bridges Institute for Learning in Southaven, I firmly believe that all children can “Learn by Doing. Grow by Exploring. Succeed by Believing.” This philosophy is at the heart of everything we do as we strive to create an environment where students can discover their passions, develop their talents, and build self-confidence.
At Building Bridges Institute for Learning, all stakeholders are essential to a child’s academic success. Whether it’s parents, guardians, educators, or students, every individual plays a vital role in shaping young minds. That’s why I love engaging with each of them through our programs, services, or coaching. We can collaborate to help children develop a love for learning that will stay with them throughout their lives. My commitment is to empower young minds with the skills and strategies they need to succeed, and I’m honored to be part.
Philosophy
At Building Bridges Institute for Learning, we wholeheartedly believe that all children, from early childhood to adolescence, can “Learn by Doing. Grow by Exploring. Succeed by Believing.” This philosophy is ingrained in everything we do as we strive to create an environment where students can discover their passions, develop their talents, and build unwavering self-confidence. We understand that education is a powerful tool for unlocking individual potential and nurturing a lifelong passion for learning. As a leader, I am steadfast in my commitment to creating inclusive learning environments that empower students to take ownership of their education and develop the skills, strategies, and confidence they need to thrive.
Every student possesses unique strengths, talents, and interests. Our programs and services are meticulously crafted to meet individual needs, offering ample opportunities for students to explore, discover, and flourish.
We wholeheartedly embrace collaboration, firmly acknowledging the pivotal roles of parents, guardians, educators, and students in shaping young minds. We proactively facilitate open communication and engagement, working cohesively as a team to instill a profound love for learning in children that will endure throughout their lives. Your involvement is not just welcomed but crucial to the success of our students. We believe that working together can create the best learning environment for our children.
We effectively create opportunities for students to actively engage in hands-on learning experiences, cultivate robust problem-solving skills, and nurture self-confidence. This proven approach unequivocally fosters academic success and equips students with the resilience, creativity, and critical thinking skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.
We are fully dedicated to nurturing the potential of young minds by providing them with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive, not just in their academic endeavors but in all aspects of their lives. Our unwavering commitment is to make a meaningful and positive difference in the lives of our students and their families, instilling in them a lifelong passion for learning. You can trust that your child’s growth and development are our top priorities, and we will do everything possible to support them on their journey.
Location
Welcome to the Building Bridges Institute for Learning in the Gardens of Snowden Grove Community, a beautiful and family-friendly neighborhood in Southaven, Mississippi, right off Goodman and Malone Road. The Institute is nestled in the heart of this charming community, making it ideal for parents seeking a nurturing environment for their children and convenient for their daily routines.
The Gardens of Snowden Grove is a single-family home community designed with families in mind, featuring a mix of homes with unique and charming architectural styles and lush green spaces. This community offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, perfect for raising a family.
One significant advantage of this location is its proximity to top-rated schools. The Desoto County School District serves the community, which boasts several highly rated schools, including Pleasant Hill Elementary School and DeSoto Central High School. Additionally, the neighborhood’s location allows easy access to nearby schools and educational institutions.
Recreational activities are plentiful in the area, with several parks and playgrounds within driving distance. The nearby Snowden Grove Park offers a playground, basketball courts, and sports fields, providing ample opportunities for kids to stay active and ensure their well-being and health.
Parents will appreciate the safety of the community. Southaven PD patrols the neighborhood often as a proactive measure to ensure the continued safety of the community where we are located.
Another benefit of this location is its proximity to the YMCA, just 14 minutes away. This provides endless opportunities for students to participate in recreational activities, allowing for easy field trips and outings that enhance your child’s learning experience.
In conclusion, the Building Bridges Institute for Learning’s location in the Gardens of Snowden Grove Community offers an exceptional blend of education, recreation, convenience, and community spirit. Parents seeking a nurturing environment for their children will find this neighborhood an excellent choice. With top-rated schools nearby, plenty of recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community, this area provides the perfect setting for children to thrive and grow.
About our program
At Building Bridges Institute for Learning in Southaven, we firmly believe that all children can “Learn by Doing. Grow by Exploring. Succeed by Believing”. Our learning program provides a nurturing environment where children ages 3 to 12 can thrive and reach their full potential. Our youngest learners, aged 3-5, are the focus of our early childhood program, where we lay the foundation for future success. We believe that this critical age range is a crucial period of rapid development, and by targeting this group, we equip them with the essential skills and knowledge to confidently enter kindergarten on or above grade level. By providing a stimulating and engaging environment, we help young children develop crucial skills in STEM, arts, and language exploration, setting them up for a lifelong love of learning.
Our approach to education is centered on experiential learning, allowing each child to develop at their own pace. We understand that families play a vital role in their children’s educational journey, so we encourage active participation and collaboration. Our unique approach is not a one-size-fits-all model but focuses on personalized learning, ensuring that each child’s unique needs are met. We offer one hour of after-school tutoring for children aged 6-12 in reading and math, with a tailored schedule to address each child’s specific focus areas and goals. This personalized approach, a hallmark of our institute, ensures your child receives the attention and support they need to succeed.
We foster a supportive and engaging environment to help our students become well-rounded and prepared for future success. Join us at Building Bridges Institute for Learning and discover a love for learning that will last a lifetime. Our program is not just about academic success but about instilling a passion for learning that will benefit your child throughout.