Berkeley Parents Network: Summer School at BHS

Berkeley Parents Network

Summer School at BHS

Berkeley Parents Network > Reviews > K-12 Schools > Berkeley Public Schools > Berkeley High School > Summer School at BHS

Summer schools for getting ahead?
Taking freshman classes the summer before?
See also: Summer programs

Summer schools for getting ahead?

May 2002

Does anyone have any experience with the BHS summer program? I have a daughter interested in taking a class or two to get a jump on her Sophomore year. I have heard that some classes are unruly with students repeating a failed class. Any advice would be appreciated. Many thankx. Janet

Here is a question that I sent to BHS 9th grade counselor, Ms. Antonnucio, and her reply. (She did reply within 24 hours.) Don

Dear Ms. Antonnucio, Thank you for coming to Willard MS Monday night. I have one question that wasn't addressed: Are students able to take required courses during summer school, thus freeing up a semester during the regular school year for an elective?
Reply:
Students can take some BHS graduation requirements at BHS summer school or at community college. But, Freshmen have to take English, IES, Math and P.E. The summer after freshmen year they could take a visual or performing arts class, P.E., an English or a history elective. The have to take required classes when they are required but they can take other courses like the ones listed to get ahead. Many of our students concurrently enroll at Vista community college during the summer for enrichment classes. Many of the BHS summer school classes are remedial. Occasionally we offer PE or art for students who want to get ahead. I hope this is clear and answers your question. Jennifer Antonuccio 9Th Grade Counselor Berkeley High School

My understanding about summer classes at BHS, (at least this year with the budget cuts), is that is only for students that failed classes and it isn't advised for students trying to get a head start. This is what we were told at the session counselors conducted for incoming 9th graders. Debra

Editor Note: latest email newsletter from BHS says summer school is largely remedial this year.

Taking freshman classes the summer before?

January 2000

Some time ago, I remember reading about the idea of entering BHS freshmen taking a course in summer school that lightens their first semester. Ethnic Studies? Does anybody know more details about this--such as timing, coursework, etc.? --Joan

Berkeley High offers bridge program for entering freshman. But students can also take regular offerings like English or History. That leaves more room in the schedule for fun stuff like art. Sally

I know the District has a committee to discuss options, including types of classes. In the past summer school has been 6 weeks, 2 hours for each class, a variety of classes with students taking 1 or 2 classes. As an 8th grade V.P. I have recommended classes for students who aren't going away or have jobs. Students earn BHS credit. For some students, they learn where classes are located and get a feel for high schools. Last year applications for summer school were given in late April, early May. Doreen

(From the May/June 1999 PTA newsletter)

Summer School at BHS [summer of 1999]

In addition to the educational opportunities at the local community colleges and Cal, Berkeley High School is expanding its summer program this year. BHS Summer school offers one six-week session (June 21-July 30) and two three-week sessions (June 21-July 9) and (July 12-July 30). If sufficient students sign up for these classes, the school will offer the following programs:
American Literature, Composition, Creative Writing, World Literature, World of Media, Poetry, Public Speaking. Math Proficiency, Algebra Preparation, Algebra 1B & 2B, Geometry B, American Government, Economics, USeminar, Ethnic Studies, Social Living, Biology 1 &2, Physical Science 1&2 (these classes are not college prep lab sciences), Spanish 1& 2, ESL: three levels, ESL World History, ESL Ethnic Studies, Driver Education, Basketball, Conditioning, Team Sports, Soccer, Self-Defense, SAT Preparation, The Harlem Renaissance: African American Studies, Ceramics, Creative Arts, Drawing, Video Production, Documentary Video Production, Words & Images: Emphasis on Graffiti Art, Writing Proficiency, Reading Proficiency, Senior Diploma, Work Experience. Brochures are available from the RegistrarS History 1 & 2, World History 1 & 2, Women

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