Board approves $81,250 Title IV‑A funding for Buddy Jordan Foundation mentoring in nine schools
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Summary
The board approved funding for the Buddy Jordan Foundation’s Brothers Table mentoring program for the 2025–26 school year, to be funded from Title IV‑A and serving multiple schools and feeder patterns.
The Board of Education approved $81,250 in Title IV‑A funds for the Buddy Jordan Foundation’s Brothers Table mentoring program, which the presenters described as a group-based mentoring model for boys focusing on brotherhood, mentorship and community.
Buddy Jordan Foundation leaders said the program has operated in Bridgeport schools for several years and was created in response to a district ad hoc committee focused on outcomes for Black and Brown boys. Presenters described a cycle of modules—personal exploration, personal development, care for others, responsibility and sense of purpose—delivered in five- to eight-session modules over a year.
Nut graf: The program is explicitly aimed at mental-health supports and mentoring for boys; the board approved the request using federal Title IV‑A funding that supports school mental-health and safety programs.
Board members asked about screening and oversight for facilitators. Presenters said facilitators undergo background checks, an application and interview process, quarterly trainings and clinical oversight by a licensed social worker. The presenters said they work with principals to make sure schools are comfortable with facilitators and that colleges and local partners (for example, the University of Bridgeport) have taken part in sessions.
Funding and logistics: The presenters and board staff said the program will be implemented across nine schools next year and that the $81,250 request will cover all nine sites. Board member Albert Benahan asked whether the amount was a total for all nine schools; the presenter confirmed the total amount.
The motion to approve funding was made by a board member and carried with a roll call in which no objections were recorded. Supporters on the board said the program addresses suspension and behavioral concerns by providing trusted adult relationships and positive male role models.
Ending: The foundation will begin work in the summer and continue with school-year sessions and is expected to report on participation and program oversight to the district as part of Title IV‑A compliance.
