IRVINE - Some schools are spirited. Other schools are average. But in the weeks to come, Beckman High School will find out whether or not it is distinguished. Beckman’s nomination for California Distinguished School status led to a visitation last week on March 8.

After sending in an application to become a California Distinguished School, Beckman was pleased to find out that they merited a visitation from a group of evaluators. Mrs. Heuer, who was principal at Pioneer Middle School when they were named a Distinguished School, had the school prepare by “cleaning up some gum,” painting over some older walls, and most importantly, wearing her “lucky suit.”

The visitation at Beckman, began with a coffee concert with the orchestra in the Commons, and led into an informal introduction to the administration. A school tour followed, and the visitors observed classrooms across Beckman. In an effort to understand the viewpoint of Beckman students themselves, a student group was put together in the library. When asked what her favorite part of Beckman was, Junior, Ashley Barnes answered, “I’m madly in love with the drama department. There aren’t many places where people that look like me could be accepted, but Beckman gives me a place despite it.”

The visitation continued with further class observations and lunch with the faculty, and an interview with members of the school site council and parent representatives. Assistant Principal MacCormick explained, “Our parents are our stake holders, and they’re part of what makes us distinctive. Some of the parents were directly involved with the application process.” The day ended with an interview with members of Beckman’s staff.

What does it take to make a distinguished school? Opinions vary. While the Distinguished School website claims that the most important criteria is the No Child Left Behind Adequate Yearly Progress and the Academic Performance Index, visitor Stephanie Schneider claims that “excited and engaged students” are what she looks most for. Vice Principal MacCormick contends that the school’s liveliness is the most important aspect of Beckman. “There’s an energy that happens when the sun comes up here.”

The most commonly echoed sentiment was the progress of Beckman. MacCormick, who expressed it most aptly, saying, “We’ve seen it literally built from dirt. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come.” Schneider agreed, and remarked, “I was pleased to see such a challenging atmosphere at such a young school.”

What could be the impact of being named a California Distinguished School for Beckman? “I know that when a school is accepted, home values [in the area have increased,” stated Susan McCoy of the visitation team. Schneider added, “Coming from UCI, I would say that becoming a California Distinguished School would be one of the factors that would push you over the top in admissions. Colleges like to back a winner.”

The results of the evaluation will be available April 17, 2007.