Jesuit Summer Bridge

Jesuit Summer Bridge is an annual program dedicated to making an impact on local middle school boys in an instructive and nurturing environment. 

Founded in 2011, the 5-week JSB program, which typically begins in early June, is led by Jesuit High School faculty and staff and is supported by Jesuit student counselors. It is packed with learning, activities, and fun. The program customarily registers about 50 boys from two dozen Hillsborough County public schools, charter schools, and private schools, to experience the comprehensive JSB program.

Each morning includes focused academic instruction in three areas – math, critical thinking, and language arts – plus a half-hour daily reading period, mixed with an array of electives such as science and art. In 2024, JSB was led by principal Jonathan Barlaan '07, who is a Jesuit High School science teacher and coach. Barlaan's JSB teaching staff consisted of young alumni who are high school teachers: Jake Pedrero '12, Rey Riveros '16, and Cameron Ruff '13.

Each week at JSB has a designated theme, such as Brotherhood and Leadership, and each day begins with the "Prayer for Generosity." Classes are assigned a book during reading period which is discussed during their language arts class. Each day ends with an elective, activities such football, kickball, or strategic board games.

At the beginning and end of the program, students are tested in each JSB subject area, demonstrating their academic improvement over the five weeks. The program concludes each July with a graduation ceremony. Many Jesuit Summer Bridge alumni have later enrolled at Jesuit High School, graduated, and gone on to attend universities such as Boston College, Central Florida, CEU Cardinal Herrera University (Spain), the University of Chicago, Embry-Riddle, Florida A&M, Florida State, North Florida, Saint Leo, South Florida, the University of Tampa, and Tennessee State.

JSB provides an opportunity for middle schoolers to continue to boost their academics over the summer, while meeting new friends from different schools and experiencing the culture at Jesuit High School. The program is offered at a discounted cost due to the generosity of benefactors, notably Nancy and Mike Petters '77. The Petters' have demonstrated a leadership commitment to JSB and to providing unique opportunities for local youths to experience a Jesuit education.

For information or to register for Jesuit Summer Bridge, contact Steve Matesich '91 at smatesich@jesuittampa.org. View below images from Jesuit Summer Bridge 2024!