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Middle School Unit » Middle School Unit

Middle School Unit

Middle School Unit

students building projectPROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Beyond the Bell Middle School Unit serves all Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) middle school students by providing access to high-quality Expanded Learning Programs. Our vision is to create an inclusive environment where every student can actively participate, whether during the regular school year or summer break. These programs are thoughtfully designed to help students expand their knowledge, skills, and abilities.
 
Our Expanded Learning Programs focus on the arts, academics, and recreation. Research has shown that participation has a positive effect on academic performance, physical health, and social-emotional well-being. We believe that that by engaging in safe, enjoyable, and meaningful learning experiences, students gain the tools they need to successfully navigate life beyond middle school.
PROGRAM LEAD
Marie Bracamonte is the Field Coordinator for the Beyond the Bell Middle School Unit. She has been with Beyond the Bell since 2013 and brings more than 25 years of experience in education and expanded learning. Before joining LAUSD, she worked in the Tucson Unified School District in Arizona for 14 years as an Elementary School Principal, Middle School Learning Supports Coordinator, Reading Specialist, and Classroom Teacher.
 
In her current role, Marie oversees the delivery of safe, engaging, and high-quality Expanded Learning Programs. These programs are designed to support students' academic growth, social-emotional well-being, and physical development through a variety of activities and learning opportunities.
student with bridge made out of sticks    cheerleading group
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT
Pillar 2: Joy and Wellness - Welcoming Learning Environments 
The Beyond the Bell Middle School Unit supports LAUSD's Strategic Plan by creating welcoming learning environments in the following ways:
  • Providing safe and healthy environments for students and staff.
  • Building staff capacity to implement inclusive check-in activities with students.
  • Offering year-round professional development opportunities that build awareness and skills to support students of all backgrounds.
  • Creating interest-based, engaging learning environments that honor student voice and choice.
  • Celebrating learning with regular, inclusive events that highlight student achievement and progress.
  • Conducting regular program observations and assessments by Area Program Supervisors to ensure alignment with the strategic plan.
  • Ensuring access to safe and sustainable indoor and outdoor learning environments at all sites.
EVENTS
The Beyond the Bell Middle School Unit maintains a year-round calendar of school-based and district-wide events where students can apply their skills in academics, the arts, and recreation. Students are able to showcase their talents at local site events or participate in regional and district competition.
Examples of events include:
  • District-Wide Dance Competition
  • YS PLUS Regional Dance Competition
  • YS PLUS Regional Spelling Bee
  • YS PLUS Regional Chess Competition
  • M-Fest/Take Action Campaign
  • Middle School Sports Leagues and Tournaments
    • Futsal (August - October)
    • Flag Football (October - December)
    • Soccer (December - January)
    • Volleyball (January - March)
    • Basketball (March - May)
    • Summer Leagues: Volleyball & 3x3 Basketball
cheerleaders performing at mfest    girls playing volleyball
OUR TEAM
  • Marie Bracamonte - Field Coordinator, Administrator
  • Freddy Gallegos - Out-of-School Regional Director
  • Carlos Garcia - Out-of-School Regional Director
  • Dennis Yamamoto - Out-of-School Regional Director
  • Virginia Enriquez - Supervising Clerk