SANDPOINT — The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce has welcomed Forrest M. Brid Charter Schools to their membership.

Named for the late inventor/innovator, Dr. Forrest M. Bird, the charter middle and high schools service students grades 6-12 in the surrounding Sandpoint area. The schools’ mission is to “create innovative learning opportunities by fostering community, individuality, and imagination.” FBCS limit grade sizes to 50 students and focus their education efforts on project-based learning in a creative and fun environment. They provide each student with one positive adult adviser to support the student’s success.

Programs like Family and Community Engagement encourage partnerships with family and community in order to enhance student achievement in education, by creating a welcoming school climate. They host events bringing parents, siblings, students, community and staff together to build authentic relationships and to encourage meaningful volunteer opportunities. They believe teamwork will build trust and trust in the school is crucial to student success.

“Being a smaller school allows us to focus on individual student needs while allowing students to grow their learning through project based learning with a master education philosophy,” said charter administrator Mary Jensen. “We are proud of our local community and excited to be new members of the Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce, where our staff and students can enhance our community ties and help more the community through community service projects.”

FBCS is funded through the state of Idaho public-school system and there is no cost to the student or family to attend. It is based on an application and lottery system when needed. Applications are accepted throughout the year based on availability.

Information: forrestbirdcharterschool.org