I have always believed that all children can learn with the support of the adults around them.  That is why everyone in the Beckford family has high expectations for all of our students.  The highly collaborative staff and I work to maintain and increase the learning experiences for our students. Together, with our parents, we provide an atmosphere where students can feel safe, learn, and grow.

My door is always open to staff, students, and parents.  I welcome your concerns and suggestions,   Please feel free to call or stop by to see me at any time.  I will always try to make time to see you.

There are many new programs coming to Beckford for the 2005-2006 school year.  We are new recipients of the Getty Grant. Ten of our staff members spent a week this summer at the Getty Museum learning great strategies to share with their colleagues in order to bring art into the classroom.  We have also become an LAUSD Arts Prototype school.  This program will bring to Beckford both the visual and the performing arts.  We are eagerly looking forward to the new programs.

We have begun work on our Neighborhood Grant.  Watch the playground for new shrubs and bushes around the trees as well as a groundcover that will eliminate the dirt and mud that flows onto the playground.   In front of the trees we will be placing some wonderful benches so that the children (and adults) can sit, relax, and read.

Last, but not least, we are looking forward to the placement of new play equipment on both the kindergarten and the Grade1-5 yards.  These will be a welcome and exciting addition to Beckford.  Completion is expected by October.

I am eagerly looking forward to my first full year as Beckford?s Principal.  With the assistance of staff, students and parents, we will make it another excellent year.  I look forward to seeing all of you,

Fondly,
Barbara Friedrich