Jean Baptiste Beaubien Elementary School: Academics

Academics

Beaubien School has a diverse population. It is a neighborhood school that has been ranked among the top elementary schools in Chicago for the past 15 years. Beaubien students won the Chicago city championship in the Academic Bowl 1992, 2002, 2004 and 2007.

It is estimated that 60%+ of the student population has a working knowledge of a second language. The school has had three additions in the past 100 years.

On October 31, 2005, Beaubien received a letter from the Department of Assessment and Accountability for the Chicago Public Schools. Our 2004-2005 status as a School of Excellence has been elevated to School of Distinction. This rating is based on the performance of our students on the Illinois Standard Achievement Test (ISAT) and the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS). In addition, our status for 2005-2006 for NCLB (No Child Left Behind) shows that our Annual Yearly Progress (AYP) has been met in reading and math for every group measured. This recognition is the result of hard work on the part of our students, teachers, staff and parents. You should be proud. Keep it up! For more information About Beaubien

Look up the Illinois School report card for Beaubien Elementary Link to http://www.statereportcards.cps.k12.il.us

ISAT Testing

The Illinois Standard Achievement Tests are given each Spring to students in grades 3-8. Our test scores on the 2008 ISAT ranked us #5 in the city.

Stanford Learning First Testing

These tests are used to assess the degree of preparation and readiness of our students for the ISAT Test. Scores are used by teachers to assess the standards that have been mastered and those that need to be addressed. Grades do note depend on these scores. For more information on Learning First, go to: Stanford Learning First Testing These tests are used to assess the degree of preparation and readiness of our students for the ISAT Test. Scores are used by teachers to assess the standards that have been mastered and those that need to be addressed. Grades do note depend on these scores. For more information on Learning First, go to: www.learningfirst.org

Progress Reports

Every Beaubien student receives a progress report midway through each quarter. These reports are intended to provide an overview of the student’s performance through that period. It is part of the school’s goal for complete involvement of each student, teacher and parents (or guardians). Once the student brings this report home they are to return it to the school the following regular school day, with a parent or legal guardian’s signature.

Options Program
The Beaubien School Regional Gifted Center provides a full-time, comprehensive program with a differentiated curriculum for gifted students, grades one through eight. This program is designed to maximize the gifted student's potential. Students are tested and selected based on their ability to handle an advanced and demanding curriculum. Students are expected to accomplish eight years of regular Chicago Public Schools' curriculum objectives within six years in addition to the objectives delineated in the Center's state approved proposal. Presently, the Center's enrollment is limited to approximately 240 children. Generally, students are bussed to the center from the northwest quadrant of the city of Chicago, however, any identified student may attend as long as transportation is available. Free busing is provided for students living more than one and one-half miles from the school.

Administratively, the program is organized into three cycles: Primary, grades 1-3; Intermediate, grades 4-6; Upper, grades 7-8. The design of the program prepares children in the primary cycle for formal disciplines beginning at the intermediate cycle. Students at the upper level are prepared for advanced placement studies in high school. Upon graduation, most Beaubien students continue in selective enrollment programs such as the International Baccalaureate program at Lincoln Park or Taft High School's IB Program, Walter Payton College Prep, Lane Tech College Prep, Jones College Prep, Whitney Young and Northside College Preparatory schools.

The curriculum design of the program is accelerated and enriched. The science program has a strong base in the physical sciences, and honors hands-on biology. Mathematics instruction includes one year of algebra and possibly geometry. Social sciences focus on the study of economics, geography, world and American history. The literature and language arts curriculum consist of research and study skills, writing in numerous genres, vocabulary building, and the study of Shakespeare and the classics. The computer technology program involves projects utilizing problem-based learning incorporating essential technology skills and research techniques. Character education is incorporated into the program at all grade levels. Students study art and music which involves instruction in reading musical notation and the playing of a simple bar and wind instrument. The curriculum also includes logic, critical thinking skills, mythology and Latin. Students are encouraged to participate in the science fair, Latin Olympics, Academic Bowl and other academic competitions.

Students in grades 3-8 may participate in band and chorus programs. In addition, students in grades 6-8 can participate in sports activities and academic clubs, yearbook and drama.

Teacher selection for the program is based on specific content competency, evidence of a philosophy of gifted education and dedication to task. Aside from general training for the program, teachers also participate in special workshops, college level courses, in-services and summer training.

Mathematics
At our school our 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Options Program math is taught by Mr. Major. Students are divided by ability into "A" or "B" groups for the 7th and 8th grade. The 6th grade does Pre-Algebra. The 7th grade "A" group starts Algebra/Algebra 2. The 7th grade "B" groups starts Algebra. In the 8th grade the "A" group takes Geometry, while the "B" group takes Algebra 2. Students that take Algebra and Geometry take a Mid Term/Final, which is the CASE exam. This determines if you they get high school credit for these courses. For more information on the Chicago Public Schools Math & Science Initiative http://www.cmsi.cps.k12.il.us/.

Science
All students in grades 4-8 (optional for grade 3) participate in the annual science fair held in December. The science fair project is worth half of each student's 2nd quarter grade.

Ms. Fleischhacker and Ms. Jeffers handle the Science Fair at Beaubien. Science fair projects must be completed early in the school year. Here's some helpful information to give you an early start on this important school project for grades 4-8 (optional for grade 3).

Science Fair Project Manual (this document contains general guidelines for science fair projects, students need to get actual due dates from their individual science teacher)

APA Style Guide (provides helpful information for use when preparing a bibliography and research paper.)
http://www.chicagostudentsciencefair.org/
http://www.all-science-fair-projects.com/resources.php
http://www.chipublib.org/008subject/009scitech/scifair.html

Latin
Classical Latin is a subject studied in the Options Program here at Beaubien. All classes from 1st grade through 8th grade take it. Ms. Sebesta, the 4th grade homeroom teacher, also teaches Latin for the 3rd through 4th graders. Grades 5th through 8th are taught Latin by Ms. Navik, the Options Program Coordinator. She coordinates students taking The National Mythology Exam, an international test taken around the world, which is open to grades 3-8.

The 3rd grade uses First Latin: Book 2, which is a textbook that explores everyday life in ancient Rome. The 4th grade switches around between the Ecce Romani 1-A (translation, vocabulary, and grammar), History through Art and Architecture, and Discovering Languages. 5th grade continues the Ecce Romani 1-A and also works on archaeology studies. 6th graders finish the Ecce Romani 1-A book, and start the Ecce Romani 1-B book. 7th then finishes Ecce Romani 1-B, and supplements it with Latin is Fun: Book 2. Both the 6th and the 7th grades work on skits, dialogues, and songs in Latin.

Computer Labs The Beaubien Local School Council (LSC) recently approved nearly $60,000 to upgrade the computers in both labs. With all the new enrollment, the school has been able to invest money in 32 new PCs and 31 new Macs. All teaching staff were also recently assigned laptop computers for administrative work and our entire facility now has wireless accessibility.

New computers are here!

Physical Education
Physical Education at Beaubien is an important part of every student’s life. We follow all of the Illinois State guidelines. Ms. Hernandez and Ms. Sopocy are the P.E. instructors. Among some of the activities coordinated by the P.E. staff is the annual mile run and a jump rope contest.

Library

Our librarian, Ms. Manchester, is always busy selecting new books and resources for our library.

Web club members are busy interviewing teachers who handle each core subject area. Check back regularly for updates.

High School Applications MUST be to Ms. Brennan By December 9th Literature/Language Arts Mathematics Science Latin Music Physical Education Library Science Fair Latin Olympics Academic Bowl Beaubien Report Card	Academics Beaubien School has a diverse population. It is a neighborhood school that has been ranked among the top elementary schools in Chicago for the past 15 years. Beaubien students won the Chicago city championship in the Academic Bowl 1992, 2002, 2004 and 2007. It is estimated that 60%+ of the student population has a working knowledge of a second language. The school has had three additions in the past 100 years. On October 31, 2005, Beaubien received a letter from the Department of Assessment and Accountability for the Chicago Public Schools. Our 2004-2005 status as a School of Excellence has been elevated to School of Distinction. This rating is based on the performance of our students on the Illinois Standard Achievement Test (ISAT) and the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS). In addition, our status for 2005-2006 for NCLB (No Child Left Behind) shows that our Annual Yearly Progress (AYP) has been met in reading and math for every group measured. This recognition is the result of hard work on the part of our students, teachers, staff and parents. You should be proud. Keep it up! For more information About Beaubien Look up the Illinois School report card for Beaubien Elementary Link to http://www.statereportcards.cps.k12.il.us ISAT Testing The Illinois Standard Achievement Tests are given each Spring to students in grades 3-8. Our test scores on the 2008 ISAT ranked us #5 in the city. Stanford Learning First Testing These tests are used to assess the degree of preparation and readiness of our students for the ISAT Test. Scores are used by teachers to assess the standards that have been mastered and those that need to be addressed. Grades do note depend on these scores. For more information on Learning First, go to: Stanford Learning First Testing These tests are used to assess the degree of preparation and readiness of our students for the ISAT Test. Scores are used by teachers to assess the standards that have been mastered and those that need to be addressed. Grades do note depend on these scores. For more information on Learning First, go to: www.learningfirst.org Progress Reports Every Beaubien student receives a progress report midway through each quarter. These reports are intended to provide an overview of the student’s performance through that period. It is part of the school’s goal for complete involvement of each student, teacher and parents (or guardians). Once the student brings this report home they are to return it to the school the following regular school day, with a parent or legal guardian’s signature. Options Program The Beaubien School Regional Gifted Center provides a full-time, comprehensive program with a differentiated curriculum for gifted students, grades one through eight. This program is designed to maximize the gifted student's potential. Students are tested and selected based on their ability to handle an advanced and demanding curriculum. Students are expected to accomplish eight years of regular Chicago Public Schools' curriculum objectives within six years in addition to the objectives delineated in the Center's state approved proposal. Presently, the Center's enrollment is limited to approximately 240 children. Generally, students are bussed to the center from the northwest quadrant of the city of Chicago, however, any identified student may attend as long as transportation is available. Free busing is provided for students living more than one and one-half miles from the school. Administratively, the program is organized into three cycles: Primary, grades 1-3; Intermediate, grades 4-6; Upper, grades 7-8. The design of the program prepares children in the primary cycle for formal disciplines beginning at the intermediate cycle. Students at the upper level are prepared for advanced placement studies in high school. Upon graduation, most Beaubien students continue in selective enrollment programs such as the International Baccalaureate program at Lincoln Park or Taft High School's IB Program, Walter Payton College Prep, Lane Tech College Prep, Jones College Prep, Whitney Young and Northside College Preparatory schools. The curriculum design of the program is accelerated and enriched. The science program has a strong base in the physical sciences, and honors hands-on biology. Mathematics instruction includes one year of algebra and possibly geometry. Social sciences focus on the study of economics, geography, world and American history. The literature and language arts curriculum consist of research and study skills, writing in numerous genres, vocabulary building, and the study of Shakespeare and the classics. The computer technology program involves projects utilizing problem-based learning incorporating essential technology skills and research techniques. Character education is incorporated into the program at all grade levels. Students study art and music which involves instruction in reading musical notation and the playing of a simple bar and wind instrument. The curriculum also includes logic, critical thinking skills, mythology and Latin. Students are encouraged to participate in the science fair, Latin Olympics, Academic Bowl and other academic competitions. Students in grades 3-8 may participate in band and chorus programs. In addition, students in grades 6-8 can participate in sports activities and academic clubs, yearbook and drama. Teacher selection for the program is based on specific content competency, evidence of a philosophy of gifted education and dedication to task. Aside from general training for the program, teachers also participate in special workshops, college level courses, in-services and summer training. Mathematics At our school our 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Options Program math is taught by Mr. Major. Students are divided by ability into "A" or "B" groups for the 7th and 8th grade. The 6th grade does Pre-Algebra. The 7th grade "A" group starts Algebra/Algebra 2. The 7th grade "B" groups starts Algebra. In the 8th grade the "A" group takes Geometry, while the "B" group takes Algebra 2. Students that take Algebra and Geometry take a Mid Term/Final, which is the CASE exam. This determines if you they get high school credit for these courses. For more information on the Chicago Public Schools Math & Science Initiative http://www.cmsi.cps.k12.il.us/. Science All students in grades 4-8 (optional for grade 3) participate in the annual science fair held in December. The science fair project is worth half of each student's 2nd quarter grade. Ms. Fleischhacker and Ms. Jeffers handle the Science Fair at Beaubien. Science fair projects must be completed early in the school year. Here's some helpful information to give you an early start on this important school project for grades 4-8 (optional for grade 3). Science Fair Project Manual (this document contains general guidelines for science fair projects, students need to get actual due dates from their individual science teacher) APA Style Guide (provides helpful information for use when preparing a bibliography and research paper.) http://www.chicagostudentsciencefair.org/ http://www.all-science-fair-projects.com/resources.php http://www.chipublib.org/008subject/009scitech/scifair.html Latin Classical Latin is a subject studied in the Options Program here at Beaubien. All classes from 1st grade through 8th grade take it. Ms. Sebesta, the 4th grade homeroom teacher, also teaches Latin for the 3rd through 4th graders. Grades 5th through 8th are taught Latin by Ms. Navik, the Options Program Coordinator. She coordinates students taking The National Mythology Exam, an international test taken around the world, which is open to grades 3-8. The 3rd grade uses First Latin: Book 2, which is a textbook that explores everyday life in ancient Rome. The 4th grade switches around between the Ecce Romani 1-A (translation, vocabulary, and grammar), History through Art and Architecture, and Discovering Languages. 5th grade continues the Ecce Romani 1-A and also works on archaeology studies. 6th graders finish the Ecce Romani 1-A book, and start the Ecce Romani 1-B book. 7th then finishes Ecce Romani 1-B, and supplements it with Latin is Fun: Book 2. Both the 6th and the 7th grades work on skits, dialogues, and songs in Latin. Computer Labs The Beaubien Local School Council (LSC) recently approved nearly $60,000 to upgrade the computers in both labs. With all the new enrollment, the school has been able to invest money in 32 new PCs and 31 new Macs. All teaching staff were also recently assigned laptop computers for administrative work and our entire facility now has wireless accessibility. New computers are here! Physical Education Physical Education at Beaubien is an important part of every student’s life. We follow all of the Illinois State guidelines. Ms. Hernandez and Ms. Sopocy are the P.E. instructors. Among some of the activities coordinated by the P.E. staff is the annual mile run and a jump rope contest. Library Our librarian, Ms. Manchester, is always busy selecting new books and resources for our library. Web club members are busy interviewing teachers who handle each core subject area. Check back regularly for updates.
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