The Weekly Update #4

Dear Parents and Guardians,

April and May are perhaps the most important months that will determine the success of our students and our school. Not only will these 8-9 weeks be their final opportunity to improve their grades before final exams, but beginning on Monday, April 20th, 11th graders will be taking the state exams in math, English, and science. In May, students will take Advanced Placement exams which can earn college credit for those that score a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP exam. Please remember that the state exams in math and English reflect the school's academic performance on the California Dashboard and are also used for math and English placement upon enrollment at California State Universities or Community Colleges. Students that earn a standard met or exceeded can avoid taking remedial courses in college that cost money and time. Students that earn standard met or exceeded can also earn Birmingham Student Store credit that can be redeemed toward purchase of prom or grad night tickets during their senior year.

Please find the Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) Testing Schedule Below:

• SBAC Testing: Monday April 20 - Thursday, April 23

• 8:30-11:30 is 11th grade testing

• Students in grades 9, 10, and 12 begin school at 11:30 am (for lunch) with two academic periods for student at every grade level after lunch.

• SBAC Bell Schedule

• Monday 4/20: ELA Computer Adaptive Test

• Period 5 12:21 - 1:49

• Period 6: 1:59-3:27

• Tuesday 4/21: ELA Performance Task

• Period 2: 12:21-1:49

• Period 1: 1:59-3:27

• Wednesday 4/22: Math Computer Adaptive Test and Performance Task

• Period 7: 12:21 - 1:49

• Period 8: 1:59 -3:27

• Thursday 4/23: California Science Test

• Period 3: 12:21-1:49

• Period 4: 1:59 - 3:27

• Friday 4/24: Unassigned Day (No School) - In remembrance of the Armenian Genocide

As some may be aware, April is Stress Awareness Month. With all that is going on in the world from mass detention, deportations, increased cases of prejudice of all kinds, and now multi-nation war in the Middle East, I wanted to reach out to express my heartfelt solidarity with Birmingham Students and families. This is a stressful time, but it's a time that can bring us closer together as a community. Birmingham is committed to fostering a safe space for all. We do not tolerate inappropriate or demeaning slurs or discrimination against people of any race, religion, sexual identity, expression, sexual orientation, disability, or ethnicity.

At Birmingham, we are determined to support every student and family as cherished members of our school community. We are imperfect, but we will continue to lean forward toward empathy, compassion, and strengthening our relationships to deepen our bonds with each other regardless of what happens outside the walls of our school and outside the context of our local community.

When the world ceases to be at peace, our own peace and calm and focus can suffer which can impact our mental health. With this in mind, I'd like to remind all to prioritize mental well-being. I encourage both students and family members to take intentional moments to reset, breathe, and practice mindfulness. Taking small breaks makes a big difference. Step outside, take deep breaths, or do a quick mindfulness exercise—your well-being matters!

Stress Management Tips for Families

• Create a Relaxing Home Environment – Consider keeping spaces organized, incorporating soft lighting, or playing calming music to promote a peaceful atmosphere.

• Prioritize Family Time – If possible, set aside time for activities like game nights, walks, or cooking together to strengthen connections and reduce stress.

• Encourage Open Conversations – Check in regularly with family members about their feelings and challenges, offering support and reassurance.

• Set Healthy Boundaries with Technology – Establish screen-free times, especially during meals and before bed, to encourage mindfulness and relaxation.

• Model Healthy Coping Strategies – Show your children positive ways to manage stress, such as exercising, journaling, or practicing gratitude

Stress Management Tips for Students

• Take Brain Breaks – Step away from studying every 30–45 minutes to refresh your mind and improve focus.
• Get Moving – Physical activity, even a short walk or stretching, can help release tension and boost mood.
• Practice Deep Breathing – Try inhaling for four counts, holding for four, and exhaling for four to reduce stress instantly.
• Stay Organized – Use a planner or to-do list to manage assignments and prevent last-minute panic.

• Limit Social Media & Screen Time – Taking breaks from screens can help reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.

Spring is a time for renewal and growth. I look forward to a productive season for all in the Birmingham Community!

Sincerely,

Principal Bennett

Less than 2 months left until graduation! Continue working hard and finish out your high school career strong! We are all here rooting for you ALL and working just as hard alongside you to ensure your success here at Birmingham has prepared you for your bright future.

Special thanks to Friar Tux for their support in letting us preview their various Prom options during our Prom Fashion Show/Prom Theme Reveal on Thursday, March 26th during lunch. Class of 2026 Prom Theme is “Masquerade”! Friar Tux will be giving Birmingham Students a 20% discount if they bring in the Birmingham flyer. Flyers can be picked up at the Student Store or in H68-A. Remember that Prom Night will take place on Saturday, May 2nd at the Majestic Downtown LA from 7pm-11pm. Reminder that all students and guests attending Prom will be transported to and from the Prom via luxury buses…NO EXCEPTIONS. Prom tickets sales end on April 17th.

Participating in Graduation Ceremony Information: At the beginning of the school year, each Senior was given and required to sign their Senior Contract (along with a parent/guardian signature) that acknowledged their responsibilities this year. Attendance was one of the listed items that stated that any student that accumulated 15 or more absences throughout the school year would have to appeal in order to participate in our Graduation Ceremony. Therefore, notification letters will be sent out and given to students in hand, as well as postal mail and to the students’ school email on April 17, 2026, and will be due no later than Friday, May 8, 2026, to Ms. Franco in H68-A.

Warning notifications for students that currently have chronic absences are being sent out on a weekly basis via student email. The warning notifications are just precautionary because if a student accrues more absences before Graduation and it adds up to 15, then they too will have to appeal to participate in the ceremony.

LET’S CONTINUE TO WORK HARD THIS LAST SEMESTER!

12th Grade Level Academy Team

Mr. Elmore - Administrative Director

Ms. Franco - 12th Grade Coordinator

Ms. Piliposian - 12th Grade Dean

Mrs. Riusech - Counselor (A-F)

Ms. Aparicio - Counselor (G-N)

Ms. Vasquez - Counselor (O-Z)

Mr. Rodriguez - Psychiatric Social Worker

Ms. Sedani - 12th Grade Administrative Assistant

Mrs. Salvatierra - 12th Grade Clerk

Junior Students and Parents,

Juniors are preparing to take the SBAC and CAST tests from April 20 - 23. The subjects tested are English, math, and science. Please make sure your student attends on time, gets a good night's sleep, and takes the test seriously. Breakfast is available in the morning before school, but it is a good idea for them to also bring a snack since the testing window is 3 hours.

Students who MEET or EXCEED EXPECTATIONS in ELA, math, and/or science will receive $35 BCCHS student store credit per test ($105 maximum). This can be used towards Prom next year or BCCHS gear and will be released to the students next spring.

Meeting the standards also meets CSU placement requirements. More information on that can be found HERE.

In Mid-May there will be a presentation for all students and families about Senior Year. Topics will include Senior Events, costs, expectations, college application deadlines. Please keep an eye out on Parent Square for more information!

**Reminder: Sophomore Senate Meetings**

Join us every Monday in Room F-39 at lunch! Become a vital part of our

incredible Senate – your voice matters! Applications for Next year's Executive

positions have gone out, and voting will be in May.

**Spring Food Fest Recap**

On April 10th, the Class of 2028 will sell Korean Corn Dogs at Lunch. Hopes to

achieve a sell-out in just minutes! All proceeds will empower the Class of 2028 to

create exciting fundraising opportunities for next year.

**Upcoming Dates in April:**

- **Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day:** April 24 – a day to reflect and

honor.

**SBAC Testing for Juniors:**

From April 20 to April 24th, let’s rise to the challenge!

Ninth-, tenth-, and twelfth-graders will arrive at lunchtime. An alternate bell

schedule will be available on the BCCHS website to support your success.

Amanda Fitzpatrick

10th Grade Level Coordinator (818)758-4428

Class of 2027 Student Senate Advisor

Birmingham Community Charter High School

Dear 9th grade parents and students,

We have about two more months left of this school year! Your students have been working hard and summer break is right around the corner. We are proud of our 9th graders for their dedication and commitment to their education. We know that, as they move on to higher grade levels, they will serve as models and mentors for our incoming, new students.

Here are some of the significant dates this month

• April 17-19th, 23rd-26th- Descendants Musical

• April 17th- Arab American Heritage Lunch

• April 20-23rd- SBAC testing (adjusted schedule)

• April 23rd- Last day to purchase prom tickets

• April 24th- Armenian Remembrance Day (NO SCHOOL)

• May 1st- AAPI and Jewish Heritage Lunch

• May 2nd- Prom

Please continue to encourage your children to work hard, make up any missing assignments they may have, and study hard for their final exams!

As always, please reach out to anyone on our team if you have any questions or concerns.

Leila Haghi

9th Grade Coordinator

The 9th Grade Team

Edwin Avarca- 9th Grade Administrative Director

Leila Haghi- 9th Grade Coordinator/ Lead Teacher

Sami Brown, Ana Palacios, and Veronica Perez- 9th Grade Counselors

Taylor Ermoian -Psychiatric Social Worker

Joe Granish- 9th Grade Dean

Anne Mirzakhanian- 9th Grade Office Clerk/ Primary Parent Contact (818) 758-4484

___________________________________________________

Sincerely,

Leila Haghi

9th Grade Coordinator

Birmingham Community Charter High School

Hello BCCHS Community,

We hope you’re all doing well and enjoying the spring season! We’re excited to share some important updates, resources, and upcoming opportunities for students and families.

The Hub (Food Pantry) Updates

Our school food pantry, The Hub, continues to be available to support our community. This month, we have a variety of items (see below for current inventory) Students and families are always welcome—no questions asked. Just remember to sign in on the ipad if you take any items.

5th Annual Wellness Fair – MAY 9TH!

In celebration of Mental Health Month, we are excited to invite you to our 5th Annual Wellness Fair!

Saturday May 9

11am – 2pm

BCCHS Circle Drive

This event will include:

• Community organizations

• Health and wellness resources

• Activities and giveaways

• Opportunities to connect and learn

• 
  

Last years video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3q7yTMEpSc

We hope to see our students, families, and staff come together for this special event.

Community School Advisory Council (CSAC)

We invite you to join our Community School Advisory Council (CSAC)!

CSAC is a space where parents, students, staff, and community members come together to:

• Share ideas

• Provide input

• Help guide school programs and resources

Next Meeting: Thursday April 23 3:30-4:30 in counseling conference room Your voice matters, and we would love for you to be part of the conversation.

Possip Pulse Check

We also invite you to complete our Possip Pulse Check—a quick and easy way to share your thoughts and feedback.

• Takes just a few minutes

• Available in your preferred language

• Option to respond anonymously or include your name

• Share concerns, questions, or positive feedback

Our last Pulse Check had a low response rate, and we would really love to hear from more of our families. Please use the QR code below to respond.

Your responses help us:
• Understand what’s working well
• Identify areas where we can improve
• Better support our students and families

If you have any questions or would like to get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Stay Connected

Follow us on Instagram for updates, resources, and upcoming events:
@bcchs.supports

As always, please remember that BCCHS is here for you. If you have questions, need support, or want to get involved, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Cecilia Macias
c.macias@bcchs.net
818-758-4411