8th Grade Resources

Welcome to Beckman High School and the beginning of four exciting years for you and your soon-to-be ninth grader! 

We invite you to form a partnership with Beckman High School and actively participate in the education of your child. To learn more about Beckman High School, parents were invited to “attend” our 8th Grade Parent Night virtually on Wednesday, April 14, 2021. The night’s program was highlighted by several breakout sessions designed to provide you  with  specific information about the various programs that support our school’s continued vision of achievement in the FOUR A’s (Academics, Athletics, Activities, and the Arts). Administrators and counselors explained the college preparatory programs, enrollment and registration process and graduation requirements, while directors, coordinators, coaches, advisors and teachers spoke about specific programs they lead.  It was a great night to learn and ask questions about all of Beckman’s programs.   

1.        Principal's Message (Dr. Rafter) – A general welcome with important information about the school and what to think about as you and your child move through high school and the course selection process.

2.        ASB/Student Government (Mr. Cooper) – Parents will learn about various ways students can get involved in student government and leadership through elected and appointed positions.  There will be an overview of the ASB class and how freshmen will apply and the interview process.

3.        Athletics Program (Fischel/Salas) – An overview of the athletic opportunities available at Beckman with information about our overall approach to athletics, tryouts, and our summer programs.

4.        AVID (Ms. Dawson) - An overview of the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program at Beckman.  The session will go over the characteristics of a successful AVID student, the topics that are covered in the 4 years of the AVID elective, and the WICOR strategies that are used in the program to work towards the mission of AVID (to close the opportunity gaps and improve college and career readiness for high school students, especially those traditionally underrepresented in higher education). 

5.        Cheer (Vaca/Salas) - Parents will receive information regarding the upcoming 2021-2022 BHS Cheerleading tryouts. We will discuss dates, times, program rules and policies, team commitment, and expectations for the cheer team. 

6.        Counseling (Mrs. Charles) – In this session, you will learn about what a typical freshman day might look like and how to balance activities and choose the right classes for YOUR student.  Parents will also learn more about the Healthy Limits Waiver, electives we offer, Early College, and some of our activities and athletic offerings.

7.        Dance (Chavarria/Salas) - Parents will receive information on the new team tryout meeting. The dates, times, and how to sign up for the tryouts will be discussed. Parents will learn what the audition criteria, technical skills, team commitment and competition requirements are for the dance team. 

8.        Early College (Robert Melendez) – Early College is a 4-year program at Beckman where students take a set series of classes through Irvine Valley College and earn both high school and college credit.  At the completion of the 4-year program, students will have earned their high school diploma AND an associate degree from IVC.

9.        Human Geography (Mr. Veitch) - Human Geography is an amazing way for 9th graders to be introduced to the rigors and opportunities of the AP programs offered at Beckman. Students will learn about the multiple ways that humans interact with the modern and ancient world, and how that same world influences our behaviors and interactions today.

10.     Math (Mrs. McClellan) - This presentation will look at the various Math Pathways offered to students at Beckman, consider the differences between the Honors and CP math courses, and will lay out how to ensure your child is set up for success.

11.     Patriot Resources (Mr. Espinoza and Mrs. Sun) - Parents will receive an overview about the multiple support services that Beckman offers students. Services range from academic workshops and study skills groups to individual counseling services provided by a mental health specialist.

12.     Robotics and Engineering (Mr. SK Sit) - This presentation will explain the 3-year Engineering pathway offered at Beckman. Information about Robotics and Engineering clubs will also be discussed in this session.

13.     Science (Mrs. Hammer) - Science pathways will be discussed as well as the differences between Biology and AP Biology at the 9th grade level.

14.     Visual and Performing Arts (Mr. Kollias) – Learn about the various award winning Visual and Performing Arts programs here at Beckman. We offer instrumental music, vocal courses, theater, graphic design, painting and drawing, and film-based classes.

15.     World Language (Mrs. Mora) - Parents will receive an overview of the different world languages available at Beckman High School. Topics that will be discussed include the benefits of learning a second language, required length of study, language maintenance, and the State Seal of Biliteracy.

> IVC Early College Program Information