The Bellflower Beat 4.1.24
Bellflower Middle/High School Newsletter
Getting Ready for April
Can you believe that we are already in April! That only leaves May and start of June! The year is moving along fast. By the time you know it, we'll be in summer.
Below are just a few reminders about school policies:
- Bellflower Middle/High School does not permit any drop-offs or deliveries of food or other items. Please ensure that your student is prepared for the day when coming to school in the morning with their lunch, supplies, money, etc. Parents (with ID) can bring food during lunch to the attendance office to give to their student.
- Dress Code. Please be sure that your student follows the dress code and wears appropriate clothing and accessories. Bellflower hats are also the only school approved hat that can be worn at school.
- No returning back to campus. If a student has an early release (7th or 8th period), once the student leaves campus, they may not return to campus. Parents - please ensure that your students are going home early if they have the early release.
- School Bus. If you are an early release student who takes the school bus, you may only take the bus that is available for the early release students. You may not wait around campus to take the later bus.
For a full list of student policies on attendance and dress code, please click here.
CAASPP State Testing
Every year schools administer the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) test to 7th, 8th, and 11th grade students. As we prepare for the upcoming CAASPP State testing, we want to share some important updates regarding this year's schedule. This year our testing schedule will be different than years past. CAASPP testing will take place April 15th-26th. 7th, 8th, and 11th grade students will participate in a morning testing block from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. All other grade levels will begin school at 10:45 AM on these testing days. Please be aware that testing will only occur on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays during the April 15th-26th testing window. Mondays and Fridays we will be using our regular bell schedule. Please see the attached calendar and bell schedule.
English Learner Reclassification Ceremony
In March we hosted an English Learner Reclassification Ceremony where we recognized 69 reclassified students. For many of our English Learners, they have been classified as an EL since they enrolled as Kindergartners, so this is a huge accomplishment.
3rd Quarter Honor Roll Celebration
The Counseling Office celebrated all students who made the honor roll list for the third quarter with a certificate and a bag of chips. Congratulations students for all your hard work. It definitely does not go unnoticed. Keep it up, Bucs!
Forensic Science
Forensic science just did a blood spatter lab to gain hands on experience with how blood spatter is influenced by height, Target surface and angle of impact. Students designed an experiment to test how these factors influence the way blood spatter changes under various conditions.
Girls Empowerment Summit at CSUDH
On March 15th, a group of 23 girls joined the Girls Empowerment Summit at Dominguez Hills with Dr. Scipio and Ms. Lucchesi, hosted by yours truly Dr. Eno, our school librarian. The girls had a productive and elevating day of guest speakers, meditation, vision board creations, step team performances, and lots of love and encouragement from all the wise counselors that were a part of this event. Thank you Dr. Eno for such an incredible experience.
Link Crew Lucky Leprechaun Hunt
Link Crew leaders hosted a Lucky Leprechaun Hunt for the 7th graders during middle school lunch. 7th graders participated by hunting down the 10 hiding leprechauns who were passing out treats. The 7th grader who found and took the most photos with the leprechauns won a grand gift card prize.
Link Crew will be hosting a similar event after spring break
Pre Med Club Fundraiser
Pre Med Club has been selling lemonade to help support Alex’s Lemonade Stand, an organization to help raise awareness to fight childhood cancer. We have almost reached our goal to donate our first check, thanks everyone who has supported the cause already.
Vocal Auditions
BMHS Football
Football practice begins May 6, see Mr. Miller for more information.
Wellness Center in April
Hello Bucs! April is Financial Literacy Month. Over the course of the month the Wellness Center will be focusing on Environmental and Financial Wellness. Please join us for any planned events during middle and high school lunches. Earn MINGA points, learn new things, and connect with friends! #BeWellBellflower
Girls Empowerment Group "We Rise Together"
On March 27, 2024, the girls empowerment group "We Rise Together" met for Part 4. Our own, Ms. Sabrina imparted her wisdom, inspiration, and love upon all of our girls. She shared her story of growth and how she learned to love herself. She provided insight into ways one can build self-confidence and self-love. She shared with the girls how she started her own fitness business "Happy Lifts" and how her life has changed in the last 4 years because of her self love. We are so thankful for her time, energy, and love that she poured into all of our girls. Thank you again Ms. Sabrina.
BREAKING NEWS - FAFSA AND CADAA PRIORITY DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO MAY 2ND!
The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) announced that the state priority deadline for Cal Grant and Middle Class Scholarship has been extended from April 2, 2024 to May 2, 2024. CSAC is hosting several webinars to assist students and their parents to complete the FAFSA or CADAA. Review the flyer for more information. If students need help completing their FAFSA or CADAA, they can schedule an appointment with Ms. Campos for a one-on-one meeting in April. NOTE - There will not be any FAFSA/CADAA workshops at BHS in April.
If any seniors completed your FAFSA or CADAA, please complete the Financial Aid Completion Status Form to provide proof that they submitted your FAFSA/CADAA. By completing the form seniors will be put in a drawing for several incentives and for TWO extra graduation tickets. Link to form - https://bit.ly/bhs-2024-fin-aid-upload
CLASS OF 2024 BHS SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION - Deadline extended to April 12th
The deadline to submit the Class of 2024 General Scholarship Application has been extended to Friday, April 12th. Every year various community organizations in Bellflower provide scholarships to graduating seniors who plan to attend college or trade school. We created a general scholarship application to apply for these scholarships. By completing the General Scholarship Application, student's information will be provided to these organizations. This scholarship is open to ALL Bellflower High School seniors regardless of their college plans and GPA.
- Link to access the scholarship application: https://bit.ly/2024-gen-scholarship-app
- New Deadline to submit the general scholarship application is Friday, April 12th at 11:59 pm.
CERRITOS COLLEGE SUMMER DUAL ENROLLMENT COURSE - MUSIC 104B (HISTORY OF ROCK)
Attention Bucs, Cerritos College is offering Music 104B - History of Rock this summer as an online course to current Bellflower Middle/High School students in 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th grade. Description of MUSIC 104B (History of Rock): This course introduces students to rock and its influence on American popular music. The students will learn how to actively engage with music by relating rock to other styles of music, relating music to text, and relating rock to its cultural context.
COURSE DETAILS:
- Schedule: June 5th – July 7th
- Days/Time: ONLINE - The class is fully online with no scheduled meetings. Students are permitted to log into the class whenever they are available to complete coursework.
- Credits CC/HS: 3 Units/10 HS Credits (Students will earn Cerritos College AND High School credit
- NOTE - This course counts for both the Fine Art/Visual Art requirement for graduation and for A-G.
- Additional Information: This is a shared class with other BUSD students. Class will fill-up quickly. Enrollment is first come, first serve. Sign-up today!
If interested in taking the Dual Enrollment course, complete the Dual Enrollment Sign-up Form at: https://bit.ly/summer-dual-enroll-calaps-sign-up
BMHS Wellness Center
The BMHS Wellness Center is open for students to utilize this space on campus dedicated to supporting ALL students in their pursuit of positive wellbeing. The Wellness Center aims to create opportunities for students to learn about the mind-body connection while striving to positively impact all aspects of their lives. Come swing by and say hello.
ParentSquare
Bellflower Middle/High School is using ParentSquare!
We are excited to let you know that this year we’ll be using ParentSquare to communicate with you at the school, and in your classrooms and groups. ParentSquare provides a simple and safe way for everyone at school to connect. Parents should have received an invitation email or text to join ParentSquare, while students can use their school email/password using the Google button on the site.
Below are two videos, one in English and one in Spanish, that explain the purpose of ParentSquare, in addition to some helpful documents.
CTE Electives!
Bellflower Middle/High School is proud to serve multiple types of CTE elective choices to our students. Please see the following film clips. Think about the types of elective options that you might want to consider. Enjoy!
Middle School Sports
Attention Middle School Students! Do you want to participate in sports? Pick up a permission slip from the BISC Office!
SENIORS! Time to order Class Rings, Cap & Gowns, and Letterman Jackets!
Senior Grad Week On Sale!
Senior Grad Week Events/Packages go on sale starting Monday, January 22nd. Please know that there is a limited number of Disneyland tickets for our Senior Grad Nite, and thus there is a first-come-first-serve purchase for that particular event. We also have discounted Package deals as well, to save a bit of money.
Interested in Going To Japan??
Are you interested in going to Japan in 2026? Bellflower High School is currently in the process of organizing a field trip to Japan, which will visit sites such as Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Tokyo. The dates are subject to change, but attached below is a sample itinerary.
If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Amber Vann: ambervann@busd.k12.ca.us
Vocal Department and Golf
Interested in joining the BHS Vocal program or interested in golf? Check out the following flyers! For any questions, please see Mr. Shu in Room 891.
Think Together After School Program
Think Together is an after school program for middle school students Monday-Friday after school from 2-6pm and Monday's before school from 9-10:30am. This program is on campus at Bellflower Middle/High School and offers students homework support, arts and enrichment, STEM projects, and intramural sports programs. If interested there are multiple ways to register.
1. Goto the website https://thinktogether.org/enroll and fill out the e-application form
2. Scan the QR Code on the flier below
3. Text "ENROLLMENT LINK" to (562) 617-3561
4. In person registration at BMHS from 10:30-2pm daily in room 205
For more information or questions please contact Destiny Soto @ destiny.soto@thinktogether.org
7th Grade Tutoring with Link Crew!
Attention 7th graders! Do you need help with your homework? Do you need help studying for a test? Do you need help with any of your classes? Link Crew is here to help you! Link Crew will be hosting tutoring every Monday and Thursday during 7th/8th period in room 707. All 7th graders are welcome, stop by anytime!
2023-2024 Summer Programs & Internship Guidebook
The College & Career Center has created a Summer Programs & Internship Guidebook. In the guidebook you will find information about internship opportunities and summer enrichment and pre-college programs offered at university campuses and by non-profit educational organizations. The guidebook also has information for several scholar programs for rising seniors (current juniors - Class of 2025). Summer enrichment programs, internships and participation in scholars programs are a great way to help you build your resume for college applications and scholarships.
To access the scholarship list, click on the link: https://bit.ly/BHS-summer-programs-guide
Visit the College and Career Center in Room 401 if you have any questions about the guidebook or if you need a brag sheet.
Cerritos Complete Promise Program
Seniors. Are you interested in attending Cerritos College and participating in the Cerritos Complete Program? If so, the Cerritos Complete Program staff is hosting Information Nights to explain how students can earn 2-Years of FREE tuition. Don't miss out on this opportunity!
Graduating seniors interested in attending Cerritos College in the Fall should consider applying to the Cerritos Complete Program. Cerritos Complete provides students with two-years free tuition, priority registration, one-on-one academic advising and counseling, and career exploration. In order for students to participate in the Cerritos Complete Promise Program (CCPP) students must complete six steps. See flyer for the Cerritos Complete Promise Program Eligibility Checklist - Link to Flyer: https://bit.ly/cerritos-college-ccpp-checklist24
Cerritos Complete Program website with the 6 steps and deadlines: https://www.cerritos.edu/cerritos-complete/Requirements.htm
NOTE: Cerritos College Liaison is on campus every Monday from 12:15 to 3:45pm.
2023-2024 Scholarships
To access the scholarship list, click on the link: https://bit.ly/BMHS-2023-2024-scholarships.
Visit the College and Career Center in Room 401 if you have any questions about the scholarships on the list or if you need a brag sheet.
City of Bellflower: Parks & Recreation - Adaptive Recreation Program
Senior SELACO Training
Paper Tutoring
Did you know that free online tutoring is being provided by the BUSD district? Students can log in to Paper using their school district's Clever accounts (which uses the student's school email/password), or they can download the Paper app!
PAPER Online Tutoring is available for all students in 4th-12th grade through their Clever account. Students may ask tutors questions through the chat feature using the PAPER APP to get help with homework, feedback on their writing, or support with studying for assessments. The APP can be found in the Google Play and Apple APP store.
Click here to register for a free parent webinar (provided in English and Spanish). If your child needs more information about how to use PAPER, they can watch the following videos for more information:
Click here to watch the video titled "How Do Students Access 24/7 Live Help on PAPER?"
Click here to watch the video titled "How Do Students Use PAPER's Essay Review?"
COVID-19 Information
College & Career Center
Minga
Bellflower Middle/High School students will utilize the app called Minga as a digital ID card. The app enables staff to create hall passes, reward students for doing well and helping others, and the digital ID card will help students have an easier time entering or leaving campus. The digital ID has a "live" interface, with a running digital clock and a moving background, thus preventing students from using a screenshot [Screenshots of ID are not permitted]. Students will utilize their school email (via Google) to log in. The app is safe to use, uses very little data, and doesn't require access to any of the information stored on your phone. If your child does not have a smartphone, don't worry - they will receive a printed ID card as well.
Click here to read more about Minga, and how students sign in with their school email.
Counselor Assignments for the 2023-2024 School Year
College Wednesdays
PTSA - Student Positions
Parent Teacher Student Association
Promotes strong school to community collaboration and engagement
Recognizes community and student achievements and service
Serves to advocate for all children and families
Dedicated to educational success, health and wellbeing
The Bellflower MIddle HIgh School PTSA is organizing for the 2023-24 school year.
We are looking for students, parents or community members to join us in serving the students
here at BMHS. If you are interested in taking part, please respond to the following email:
KColeman@busd.k12.ca.us (562) 920 1801 X3105
Join PTSA!
SENIOR STUDENTS! Did you know that several PTSA groups in our community offer scholarships? But, you can only qualify to receive a PTSA scholarship if you are a member! So, join today!
Click here to be redirected to TOTEM, the website that our PTSA uses for online membership payments. Or, you can also go to the front office to pick up a membership envelope as well, if you prefer to pay with cash or check.
Thank you in advance for joining our Bellflower Middle/High School PTSA!
Mission & Vision Statement
Mission Statement: Through rigorous and engaging college, career, and co-curricular opportunities, Bellflower Middle/High School develops students who are empowered to be lifelong learners and leaders in an ever-changing global society.
Vision Statement: We are committed to producing contributing citizens who are prepared to excel in college, career, and civic life.
Schoolwide Learner Outcomes (SLOs): Upon graduating, Bellflower Buccaneers are:
-Ethical Decision Makers
-Effective Communicators
-Collaborative Workers
-Critical Thinkers-
-Quality Producers
Bellflower Middle/High School
YouTube: @wearebellflower
TikTok: Bellflower_asb
Email: bhsprincipal@busd.k12.ca.us
Website: www.bellflowerhigh.org
Location: 15301 McNab Avenue, Bellflower, CA, USA
Phone: 562-920-1801
Facebook: facebook.com/wearebellflower
Twitter: @wearebellflower