Press Release: Bassick High School to Dedicate Gymnasium in Honor of Bernard “Bernie” Lofton

[District Communications]

                                                                                                                                                                              

                                                                                                                                                                             

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

December 15, 2025 

-Press Release- 

Bassick High School to Dedicate Gymnasium in Honor of Bernard “Bernie” Lofton

BRIDGEPORT, CT — December 15, 2025 —Bridgeport Public Schools, Bassick High School, and the Bridgeport community will gather to dedicate the Bassick High School gymnasium as Bernard “Bernie” Lofton Court, honoring the life and legacy of a beloved coach, mentor, and lifelong champion for Bridgeport youth.

Bernard J. “Bernie” Lofton (1958 to 2024) was a proud graduate of Bassick High School and a product of the Bridgeport Public School system. Raised in Bridgeport’s West End, Bernie was a standout multisport athlete, a United States Marine Corps veteran, and a devoted educator whose life was defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to young people.

Bernie spent decades serving the Bassick community as a school security guard, mentor, and coach. He later became Head Coach of the Bassick High School Boys Basketball Team in 2013 and also coached Boys Cross Country and Girls Outdoor Track. Known for saying he “bled Bassick green,” Bernie’s pride in his school and belief in his students left a lasting impact well beyond the gym.

Through his partnership with the Walter E. Luckett Jr. Foundation, Bernie helped establish transformative programs including the Saturday Enrichment Program, Books to Basketball, and the ECHO Summer Academy. These initiatives blended academics, character development, and athletics while welcoming students from across Bridgeport.

This dedication serves as a lasting tribute to Bernie Lofton’s legacy and his lifelong commitment to ensuring every child felt seen, supported, and capable of success.

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What:

Gym Dedication of Bernard “Bernie” Lofton Court

When:

Tuesday, December 16, 2025 

Time: 

6:00 PM

Where:

Bassick High School

205 Broad Street

Bridgeport, CT 06604

Immediately Following:

7:00 PM

Boys Varsity Basketball Game

Bassick High School vs. Stratford High School