Larger class sizes, a more rigorous work load and an increase in personal responsibility are just some of the hurdles facing those entering high school. Preparing ninth grade students with the tools needed to successfully transition lead to the creation of The Ninth Grade Academy at Berkmar HS.  The Ninth Grade Academy strives to provide each ninth grade student with a nurturing and academic environment for the successful transition from middle school to high school.

Choosing the right career pathway in one of the College and Career Academies is an important decision. Incoming freshman need time and insight before making a selection that will guide their academic study through graduation .  As part of our unique ninth grade initiative, during their freshman year students experience what each College and Career Academy has to offer them with rigorous and relevant instruction taught through the particular pathway themes of the Academies  This is a strategy allows students a chance to evaluate each of the Academies and make a clear and educated choice of the pathway they will follow during their years at Berkmar High School.

Academy Leadership Team   

• Assistant Principal: Mr. David Marquez
• Counselor: Mr. Byron Loyd

Cross Curricular Teacher Teams 

Teachers from core content areas, (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) share a large percentage the same students and the entire team helps individual students with their problems when needed.

Centralized Location

Most freshman core content classrooms are located in only one of two areas on campus to help student better acclimate to the larger student body and campus

Kid Talks

Teacher teams conduct biweekly data driven discussions about shared students to help identify those students that are excelling in class or may need additional support and interventions.

Continual Student Recognition 

Teachers recognize student achievement on a weekly, monthly and semester basis. These include positive phone calls and notes, Patriot Paper for academic & behavioral success, Student of the Month, and periodic recognition of students who are on track to be promoted as a sophomore on time.