Many parents and students are busy looking for the school choice options available to them next year, so I find myself reflecting on the profound impact that Beehive Science and Technology Academy has on the lives of our students. We are more than just a public charter school; we are a nurturing environment that empowers each student to chase their dreams and achieve their individual goals and become contributing global citizens.
At Beehive, the commitment to academic excellence and inclusivity is palpable. It’s not merely teaching our brand subjects, science, technology, engineering, and math; it’s about breaking down barriers and ensuring every student feels valued and capable of success. We built a school that supports all families. Our families come from 48 different countries and speak 60 different languages. Half of all Beehive students speak two or more languages. We celebrate our families and heritage in an International Cultures Festival each year where students research and share their cultural heritage and food.
Beehive Academy has fostered an environment where our students can be seen, heard, and supported in their individual journeys. The school’s recognition as Utah’s Best High School by US News and World Report and multiple Best of State awards reflects not just accolades, but the real, transformative impact it has on our student’s aspirations. It shows that when families are given the choice to select schools aligned with their values and goals, incredible things happen.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Beehive Academy is the innovative approach to integrate technology into the curriculum. The school’s designation as an Apple Distinguished School for seven consecutive years is a testament to this commitment. In a world that increasingly relies on technology, Beehive makes sure that each student, regardless of background, has access to the tools and resources necessary for success. We want to prepare our students for the workplace of the future.
This is especially crucial for young women, who have been historically underrepresented in STEM fields. Beehive’s receipt of the AP Female Diversity Award speaks volumes about our efforts to create pathways for girls in computer science and other STEM disciplines. The hands-on learning experiences and mentorship opportunities here are not just initiatives, but lifelines for students aspiring to thrive.
One of the mentoring opportunities our students receive is through our robotics program. Upper grade students work with our lower grade students to build skills and confidence and develop leadership skills. Our robotics team also reaches out across the United States and the world. We teach and collaborate with more than 20 teams from 13 different countries. Our students get real-world experience working in teams to solve problems.
Beehive Academy provides a rich extracurricular experience, offering a diverse range of clubs, programs, competitive teams, and leadership opportunities. These experiences foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and the development of essential social and leadership competencies.
Each student’s journey is unique, and we prioritize personalized learning paths that allow each student to explore their interests and strengths. This student-centered approach has been instrumental in helping unlock their full potential and achieve their dreams. One dedicated teacher helped an inquisitive middle school student, including building a Biosafety Level 1 lab, to research bacteria. The student went on to research bacteria at Duke University. At Beehive, all students can succeed.
I encourage everyone to recognize the importance of public charter schools like Beehive Academy. They are not just an educational institution, but a catalyst for change, shaping a diverse and skilled workforce for the future. Supporting educational choices that prioritize individual student needs helps ensure that every child can become a critical thinker, an innovator, and a leader in our ever-evolving world. Public charter schools are part of Utah’s public school ecosystem. For more information about Utah charter schools, please visit utahcharters.org. For a breakdown of school choice options, parents can visit myschoolchoice.com.
Hanifi Oguz is the Executive Director of Beehive Academy of Science and Technology
