SPECIAL PROGRAMS AT BECKFORD


 
 

GATE

GATE is a program to offer a State mandated program to students identified as Gifted.  There are six elements to be included in the program:
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Differentiated opportunities for learning
Alternate learning environments
Development of a high degree of sensitivity to others
Commitment of students to constructive ethical standards
Development of self-generated problem-solving in students
Development of realistic, positive, self-concept in students
This year's after school program involved the making of a video.  Students were encouraged to be creative using many modalities.


Student Council

Student Council is composed of representatives from 3rd, 4th and 5th grade classes.  Mr. Jim Lites is the faculty sponsor.  Student Council is involved in spirit and student government/leadership. Some activities planned are twin day, mix-match day, car wash, and school-wide talent show.  There is also a student-run student store.  The Student Council meets every Wednesday during lunch.


Resource Specialist Program

Special Education is a program designed to meet the unique educational needs of children with disabilities who meet the eligibility criteria under the law.

In the Resource Specialist Program we serve student who have learning disabilities.

If you are concerned about your child's lack academic progress, please make an appointment with your child's teacher. Then you can discuss some ways to work together to help your child succeed in school. You may request a copy of "A Parent's Guide to Special Education Services" in the school office.


Music

Kay Dell, our music teacher, teaches every Friday. Most 1st, 2nd and 3rd grade classes have an opportunity to enjoy music, rhythms and song. 4th and 5th grade students are involved in chorus, which results in a spring recital.


DATE/DARE/Health Education

DATE (Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco Education) and DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) are two important programs for all students. DATE is coordinated by Miss Stacy Rotter. This program uses the Discover Curriculum, Red Ribbon Week, Second Step and Health Curriculum. DARE is headed up by Officer Howell. Officer Howell meets with 5th grade classes for an hour every Tuesday. Other classes receive lessons as time permits.

In February 2000, all students participated in the American Heart Association's "Jump Rope For Heart." Students and families joined together to earn approximately $800 for the A.H.A.


Reading

The 600 minute club is now in effect. Every student who accumulates 600 minutes of free reading during the specified time period earns a free admission to Six Flags Amusement Park.

In March 2000, we participated in Read Across America. To celebrate reading as well as Dr. Seuss' birthday, we had a week of activities. The activities included parents reading to students, community members reading to classes, buddy reading, and an evening P.J. book party. We featured Dr. Seuss books, but adults shared books about their professions or just their favorite book.

The library is continuing to encourage families to donate Library $$$ for new books. Each new book will have a special acknowledgment for the sponsor who made that book possible.



Visual/Performing Arts

A few of our classes are combining curricular areas to offer a creative way of teaching core literature and social studies. In Spring 2000, Mrs. Milroy's 4th grade class presented "James and the Giant Peach." Mrs. Bryer's 5th grade class studied Abraham Lincoln and presented a short original play about his life.


Science

Mrs. Farber and Mrs. Whitt have been actively involved in the LA-SI (Los Angeles Systemic Innovation) project. Due to their involvement, we have been presented with a $5,000 grant to purchase science equipment. We now have many tools for measurement, scientific investigation, and study.