Dear Beck Family,

 This year marks the fifteenth opening of school for Beck Junior High, a fact that we are commemorating with the theme, “Building Futures for 15 years!” We have already met as a staff and discussed the importance of the word “building,” and its implications for planning, purpose, foundation, strategy, and permanence. We also understand the importance of preparing our students for the future in terms of being thinkers, having discipline, building a work ethic, living in a community, and using emerging technology proficiently and responsibly. To this end, you will see a few changes from years past about which we are really excited.

 This year we intend to become a “No Place for Hate” campus. Time and again, in schools around the country, parents, teachers, and students have expressed their growing concern over the decline in respect, even bullying, among our students. Our first job as educators is to provide a physically and emotionally safe environment for students to learn. The “No Place for Hate” program will allow us to take many of the activities we already use at Beck and frame them under the common purpose of creating a school community based on respect.

 We will also see a greater use of technology at Beck. All students will be given a KISD email account (which will be activated upon return of the Student Email agreement enclosed in the first day packet.) Teachers will be encouraged to use classroom technology that is engaging and relevant to our students. However, we understand that we must teach our students how to use this technology responsibly.

 Finally, several changes have occurred in state law and district policy which will change the way grades are determined. First, KISD no longer requires teachers to give a minimum grade of “50” for report card grades. Students will receive the grade that is earned. Second, Beck will begin allowing students to retake tests and assignments (weighted as a major grade) which they have failed. There are specific guidelines in place with this new practice that will be provided in greater detail by teachers and on our website. I believe that this new process will make grades a better reflection of student mastery.

 I’m very excited at the prospect of beginning another great year at Beck Junior High. Our faculty and staff are ready to begin building futures yet again. I look forward to seeing each of you!

 Go Bulldogs!

 Jeff Stocks, Principal